With reference to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines, discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of recent incidents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand. (UPSC 2017, 13 Marks, )

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Measures to Mitigate Cloudbursts Impacts According to NDMA Guidelines

•   Early warning systems: Establishing a robust early warning system to detect and predict cloudbursts in advance, allowing for timely evacuation and preparedness measures.

•   Strengthening infrastructure: Ensuring the construction of resilient infrastructure, such as bridges, roads, and buildings, to withstand the impact of cloudbursts and prevent damage.

•   Land-use planning: Implementing proper land-use planning to avoid construction in high-risk areas prone to cloudbursts, such as steep slopes or floodplains.

•   Drainage systems: Developing efficient drainage systems to manage excess rainfall during cloudbursts, preventing waterlogging and subsequent damage.

•   Forest conservation: Promoting Forest conservation and afforestation to enhance natural water absorption and reduce the risk of flash floods caused by cloudbursts.

•   Capacity building: Conducting regular training and capacity-building programs for local communities, government officials, and emergency responders to enhance their preparedness and response capabilities.

•   Public awareness campaigns: Launching public awareness campaigns to educate people about the risks associated with cloudbursts and the necessary precautions to be taken.

•   Research and development: Encouraging research and development in the field of cloudbursts to improve understanding, forecasting, and mitigation strategies.

Case studies of cloudbursts in Uttarakhand

•   Uttarakhand cloudburst 2013: In June 2013, Uttarakhand witnessed a devastating cloudburst that resulted in flash floods and landslides. The incident led to the loss of thousands of lives, extensive damage to infrastructure, and displacement of local communities.

•   Chamoli cloudburst 2021: The cloudburst triggered a massive flood in the Rishiganga river. The flood caused significant damage to the Rishiganga hydroelectric project and resulted in the loss of several lives.

•   Pithoragarh cloudburst 2016: A cloudburst caused flash floods and landslides. The incident led to the loss of lives, destruction of infrastructure, and disruption of communication and transportation networks.

•   Tehri cloudburst 2018: A cloudburst resulted in flash floods and landslides. The incident caused the loss of lives, destruction of infrastructure, and disruption of communication and transportation networks.

•   Nainital cloudburst 2015: A cloudburst caused flash floods and landslides. The incident led to the loss of lives, damage to infrastructure, and disruption of essential services.