Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Indian subcontinent, situated in a seismically active region due to the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, has witnessed a perceived increase in earthquake frequency in recent years. While not necessarily indicating a long-term trend without extensive data analysis, events like the Nepal earthquake (2015), the Afghanistan-Pakistan earthquake (2022), and recent tremors in Delhi-NCR have heightened public concern. However, India’s preparedness to mitigate the impact of these seismic events remains significantly inadequate, characterized by gaps in infrastructure, early warning systems, disaster response mechanisms, and community resilience. This answer will discuss these various aspects, highlighting the challenges and potential solutions.
Geological Context and Perceived Increase in Frequency
The Indian peninsula lies within Seismic Zones II to V, with Zone V being the most vulnerable, encompassing areas like the Northeast, parts of the Himalayas, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The increased frequency is partly attributable to better monitoring and reporting capabilities, leading to the detection of smaller tremors previously unnoticed. However, the stress accumulation along fault lines, coupled with induced seismicity from activities like dam construction and urbanization, also contributes to the rise in seismic activity.
Gaps in Preparedness
Prevention & Mitigation
- Building Codes & Enforcement: While India has building codes (like the National Building Code of India, 2016) incorporating seismic-resistant designs, enforcement is often lax, particularly in rural areas and informal settlements.
- Retrofitting: Existing vulnerable structures, especially older buildings, lack retrofitting to enhance their seismic resilience.
- Land Use Planning: Unplanned urbanization and construction in high-risk zones exacerbate vulnerability.
- Early Warning Systems: India lacks a comprehensive, nationwide earthquake early warning system. The current system is limited in scope and effectiveness.
Response
- Search & Rescue Capabilities: Limited availability of trained personnel and specialized equipment for search and rescue operations. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is stretched thin across the country.
- Medical Infrastructure: Insufficient medical facilities and personnel to handle mass casualties in affected areas.
- Communication Networks: Disruption of communication networks during earthquakes hinders rescue efforts and information dissemination.
- Coordination: Lack of seamless coordination between various agencies (NDMA, SDRF, local authorities) during disaster response.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
- Damage Assessment: Slow and inaccurate damage assessment delays relief and rehabilitation efforts.
- Reconstruction: Reconstruction processes are often slow and plagued by corruption and bureaucratic delays.
- Psychological Support: Inadequate provision of psychological support to earthquake survivors.
Specific Examples & Recent Events
The 2015 Nepal earthquake exposed India’s vulnerability, particularly in border areas. The 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake highlighted the importance of stringent building codes and rapid response. Recent tremors in Delhi-NCR, though of lower magnitude, revealed the vulnerability of older buildings and the lack of public awareness regarding earthquake preparedness.
Way Forward
- Strengthening Building Codes & Enforcement: Strict enforcement of seismic-resistant building codes, particularly in vulnerable zones.
- Investing in Early Warning Systems: Developing and deploying a nationwide earthquake early warning system.
- Retrofitting Vulnerable Structures: Implementing programs for retrofitting existing vulnerable buildings.
- Capacity Building: Training and equipping NDRF and SDRF personnel with advanced search and rescue techniques.
- Community Awareness: Raising public awareness about earthquake preparedness through education and drills.
- Improved Coordination: Establishing a robust coordination mechanism between all relevant agencies.
- Promoting Research & Development: Investing in research and development of earthquake-resistant technologies.
Conclusion
Addressing the increasing seismic risk in the Indian subcontinent requires a holistic and proactive approach. While acknowledging the geological realities, India must prioritize strengthening its disaster preparedness across all stages – prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery. This necessitates a concerted effort involving government agencies, local communities, and the private sector. Investing in robust infrastructure, advanced technology, and community resilience is not merely a matter of economic prudence but a moral imperative to safeguard lives and livelihoods. A paradigm shift towards a ‘disaster-resilient India’ is crucial for sustainable development.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.