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What is the hazard and vulnerability profile of India?
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India is highly susceptible to a variety of natural hazards due to its unique geo-climatic and socio-economic conditions. Its hazard and vulnerability profile includes:
1. Geological Hazards:
- Earthquakes: Approximately 59% of the land area of India is prone to earthquakes of moderate to very high intensity. The Himalayan region is particularly vulnerable. Source: NDMA - Earthquake
- Landslides: The Himalayan region, Western Ghats, and other hilly areas are prone to landslides, often triggered by heavy rainfall or earthquakes. Source: NDMA - Landslide
2. Hydrological and Climatic Hazards:
- Floods: India is highly vulnerable to floods, with many rivers and extensive floodplains. Heavy monsoon rainfall, inadequate drainage, and deforestation contribute to the problem. Source: NDMA - Floods
- Droughts: Large parts of India, particularly arid and semi-arid regions, are prone to droughts due to erratic rainfall patterns and water scarcity. Source: NDMA - Drought
- Cyclones: The eastern and western coasts of India are vulnerable to tropical cyclones, especially during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Source: NDMA - Cyclone
- Heatwaves and Coldwaves: Many parts of India experience severe heatwaves during the summer and coldwaves during the winter, leading to health impacts and fatalities.
3. Other Hazards:
- Tsunami: Coastal areas are susceptible to tsunamis, as demonstrated by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
- Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs): The Himalayan region is at risk of GLOFs due to the presence of numerous glacial lakes.
- Urban Floods: Increasing urbanization and inadequate infrastructure contribute to urban flooding in many cities.
Vulnerability Factors:
- High Population Density: India's large population puts more people at risk in hazard-prone areas.
- Poverty: Poverty increases vulnerability due to lack of resources for disaster preparedness and recovery.
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Poorly constructed buildings, inadequate drainage systems, and lack of early warning systems increase vulnerability.
- Environmental Degradation: Deforestation, land degradation, and unsustainable development practices exacerbate the impact of natural hazards.
- Climate Change: Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of some natural hazards, such as floods, droughts, and cyclones.