The fury of nature in Uttaranchal: Uttarkashi landslide of the year 2003

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to highlight fundamental causes and effects of disasters in the northern district of Uttarkashi, which lies in the fragile mountains of Himalaya. Disasters such as the 1991 Uttarkashi Earthquake, the flash floods of the Bhagirathi river and the devastation caused by the Gyansu landslide are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The following approach was used for this study: precise geographical location of the various landslides was marked through Global Positioning System Receiver (GPS); landslide types were identified based on activity (active or old) and debris flow slide and rock fall were marked based on the sliding material and slope condition; the land use/land cover pattern of Varunawat Parvat was also assessed; the vulnerability of population, houses and infrastructure etc. was listed; the condition of existing stability measures, e.g. check dams and drains, was assessed; and slide‐specific mitigation measures were suggested.

Findings

The Himalayan state of Uttaranchal has been witnessing the fury of nature for a long time. In recent years there has been an increase in the frequency of natural disasters. Earthquakes, landslides, cloudbursts and flash floods have caused great damage to life and property in various parts of the state. The Himalayan orogenic belt is tectonically active and subject to modifications by natural processes. Adding further to the fragility of this belt are the anthropogenic activities like the unplanned cutting of slope for construction activity, blasting of highly jointed rock mass for road construction and unplanned disposal of the slope cut debris material.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on the data/information collected during the monsoon season from 15 June to 15 September 2003. The period is short for developing any hypothesis but sufficient care has been taken to consider vital factors.

Practical implications

A calamity of rare severity requires a high level of recovery and management. Sound mitigation mechanism helps the Government and the community to tackle the problem immediately and efficiently.

Originality/value

The study highlights fundamental causes and effects of the landslide and suggests steps to overcome them.

Citation

Pande, R.K. and Uniyal, A. (2007), "The fury of nature in Uttaranchal: Uttarkashi landslide of the year 2003", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 16 No. 4, pp. 562-575. https://doi.org/10.1108/09653560710817048