What is the news editorial?

 

• • The Chenab Valley, a lifeline for millions in Jammu and Kashmir, is facing a new and concerning threat – land subsidence. Recent reports of houses being damaged and destroyed in districts like Ramban, Kishtwar, and Doda highlight the urgency of addressing this issue.

• • While landslides have historically been a concern in the region during heavy rainfall and snowfall, the increasing frequency of land subsidence in the past decade and a half demands immediate attention.

 

Understanding the Phenomena: Landslides vs. Land Subsidence

 

It’s crucial to differentiate between landslides and land subsidence.

 

• • Landslides: These involve the movement of a mass of rock, earth, or debris down a slope. They are often triggered by heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or changes in vegetation cover.

• • Land Subsidence: This phenomenon refers to the downward settling or sinking of the ground surface. It can occur due to various factors, including:

• • • Natural causes: Erosion of underlying soil or rocks, dissolution of underground minerals (like limestone), or natural compaction.
    • Human activities: Excessive groundwater extraction, construction activities (including overloading the ground), and mining can all contribute to land subsidence.

 

Reasons for Land Subsidence in the Chenab Valley

 

While the exact causes of land subsidence in the Chenab Valley are still being investigated, several potential factors are suspected:

 

• • Unplanned constructions: Rapid urbanization and construction activities without proper planning can put undue stress on the land, leading to subsidence.

• • Wastewater seepage: Leaky sewage systems and improper drainage can saturate the ground, weakening its stability and promoting subsidence.

• • Groundwater extraction: Overexploitation of groundwater resources can cause the water table to drop, leading to the compaction of soil layers and subsidence.

• • Geological factors: The geological composition of the Chenab Valley, with its underlying rock formations, might also play a role.

 

Urgent Need for Action

 

Land subsidence poses a serious threat to infrastructure, livelihoods, and even lives in the Chenab Valley. Here are some necessary steps to address this issue:

 

• • Detailed investigations: Conducting thorough geological and hydrological studies to understand the specific causes of subsidence in different areas is crucial.

• • Regulation of construction activities: Strict enforcement of building codes and regulations to ensure sustainable and responsible construction practices is essential.

• • Water management: Implementing measures to conserve water resources, promote rainwater harvesting, and address leakage in water supply and drainage systems is vital.

• • Public awareness: Educating residents about the risks associated with land subsidence and encouraging responsible water usage is important.

• • Preparedness and mitigation: Developing strategies to mitigate the risks of land subsidence, including relocation plans if necessary, is crucial for protecting lives and property.

 

The Chenab Valley’s land subsidence problem demands a multi-pronged approach. By combining scientific investigation with responsible development practices and community awareness, this beautiful and vital region can be protected from further deterioration. Only through decisive action can we ensure the safety and well-being of the people who call the Chenab Valley home.

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Mains Questions:

 

Model Answer:

 

The Chenab Valley faces a growing challenge of land subsidence, distinct from the historical prevalence of landslides. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

Contributing Factors:

• • Unplanned Constructions: Rapid urbanization and construction activities without proper planning can overload the ground, leading to compaction and subsidence.
  • Wastewater Seepage: Leaky sewage systems and improper drainage can saturate the soil, weakening its structure and promoting subsidence.
  • Groundwater Extraction: Overexploitation of groundwater resources can cause the water table to drop, resulting in the compaction of soil layers and subsidence.
  • Geological Composition: The specific geological formations underlying the Chenab Valley might also play a role in its susceptibility to subsidence.

Mitigation Measures:

• • Detailed Investigations: Conducting thorough geological and hydrological studies is crucial to understand the specific causes of subsidence in different areas.
  • Regulation of Construction Activities: Implementing stricter building codes and regulations can ensure construction practices minimize stress on the land.
  • Water Management: Measures to conserve water resources, promote rainwater harvesting, and address leakage in water supply and drainage systems are essential.
  • Public Awareness: Educating residents about responsible water usage and the risks associated with land subsidence can promote behavioral changes.
  • Preparedness Plans: Developing strategies like relocation plans for highly susceptible areas, if necessary, can protect lives and property.

 

 

Model Answer:

 

Landslides vs. Land Subsidence:

• • Landslides: These involve the downward movement of a mass of rock, earth, or debris down a slope, often triggered by heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or changes in vegetation cover.
  • Land Subsidence: This phenomenon refers to the downward settling or sinking of the ground surface due to natural processes (erosion, dissolution of minerals) or human activities (groundwater extraction, construction overload).

Socio-economic and Environmental Consequences of Land Subsidence:

• • Damage to Infrastructure: Land subsidence can damage roads, bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure, disrupting transportation, communication, and economic activity.
  • Loss of Property and Livelihoods: Homes and agricultural land can be rendered unusable due to subsidence, leading to economic hardship for residents.
  • Environmental Degradation: Land subsidence can disrupt water drainage patterns, leading to waterlogging and salinization of soils, impacting agriculture and ecosystems.
  • Risk of Health Problems: Damage to sewage systems due to subsidence can create unsanitary conditions and pose health risks for communities.

Addressing land subsidence in the Chenab Valley requires a multi-pronged approach involving scientific investigation, responsible development practices, and community awareness.

 

Remember: These are just sample answers. It’s important to further research and refine your responses based on your own understanding and perspective. Read entire UPSC Current Affairs.