"International Journal of Geography, Geology and Environment"
2023, Vol. 5, Issue 1, Part B
Disasters and sustainable development: A case study from Kumaun Himalaya
Author(s): Prema Kaira, Jyoti Joshi and NC Pant
Abstract: Kumaun Himalaya is geologically very active and sensitive for tectonics and slope instability that reasons a disasters occurrence as a common problem either natural or man-made. This region is highly prone to landslides, earthquakes, cloudbursts, glacial bursts, flash floods and many more man-made activities causing disasters. Disasters are undesirable and sudden events which cause physical, human, economic and environmental losses that exceed the coping capability of the affected community or society. Natural hazards in extreme conditions which can be Metrological, Hydrological, Climatological and Geophysical often cause disasters. Disasters caused due to human actions may either occur in the form of man-made environmental and technological disasters (dam construction, mining, forest fire and pandemics etc.). Uncontrolled forms of man-made disasters may result in desertification and other environmental problems. In such a situation sustainable development is required because it is “Development that meets the needs of the present, without any compromising the ability of future generation to meet their own needs”. Therefore quality of the environmental components has to be checked keeping in mind the concepts of sustainability. This paper discusses the causes and effects of disasters caused by man-made activities and geological sensitivity. The most effective way to address the man-made activities is to adopt sustainable development pathway by modifying the present situation to environmentally sustainable technologies and promotion of energy efficiency, renewable energy, forest conservation, reforestation and water conservation etc. Addressing disasters human requires a good scientific understanding as well as coordinated action at ‘Vocal for Local’.
Prema Kaira, Jyoti Joshi, NC Pant. Disasters and sustainable development: A case study from Kumaun Himalaya. Int J Geogr Geol Environ 2023;5(1):183-192. DOI: 10.22271/27067483.2023.v5.i1b.160