Special Topic – UPSC Geography Synopsis
UPSC Prelims Geography Revision | Page 11
Natural Disasters and Disaster Management
Natural disasters are sudden catastrophic events that cause loss of life, property and environmental damage. Disaster management focuses on preparedness, mitigation and recovery.
Natural Disasters
Natural disasters occur due to natural processes of the Earth. India is highly vulnerable to various disasters because of its geographical diversity.
Major Natural Disasters
- Earthquakes
- Floods
- Cyclones
- Droughts
- Landslides
- Tsunamis
Earthquakes
Earthquakes are caused by sudden movements within the Earth’s crust.
Effects of Earthquakes
- Loss of life and property
- Building collapse
- Landslides
- Tsunamis
India has several earthquake-prone regions, especially the Himalayan belt.
Floods
Floods occur when water overflows onto normally dry land. Heavy rainfall and river overflow are major causes.
Flood-Prone Areas in India
- Assam
- Bihar
- West Bengal
- Uttar Pradesh
Effects of Floods
- Crop damage
- Water-borne diseases
- Displacement of people
Cyclones
Cyclones are intense low-pressure systems formed over warm ocean waters.
Cyclone-Prone Areas
- Odisha Coast
- Andhra Pradesh Coast
- Tamil Nadu Coast
- West Bengal Coast
The eastern coast of India is more vulnerable to cyclones.
Droughts
Droughts occur due to prolonged shortage of rainfall. They severely affect agriculture and water supply.
Effects of Droughts
- Crop failure
- Water scarcity
- Migration
- Food insecurity
Landslides
Landslides involve the downward movement of rocks and soil on mountain slopes.
Causes of Landslides
- Heavy rainfall
- Earthquakes
- Deforestation
- Construction activities
Himalayan and Western Ghats regions are highly prone to landslides.
Tsunamis
Tsunamis are giant sea waves caused by undersea earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
Indian Ocean Tsunami
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami caused severe destruction in coastal regions.
Disaster Management
Disaster management includes planning, preparedness, response and rehabilitation activities.
Objectives
- Reduce disaster risk
- Protect human life
- Ensure quick recovery
- Promote awareness
Disaster Management Cycle
- Mitigation
- Preparedness
- Response
- Recovery
Preparedness and early warning systems help reduce disaster losses.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
NDMA is the apex body responsible for disaster management in India.
Functions of NDMA
- Policy formulation
- Disaster preparedness
- Coordination of rescue operations
- Awareness programmes
Early Warning Systems
Technology plays an important role in predicting and monitoring disasters.
Examples
- Weather forecasting
- Satellite monitoring
- Tsunami warning systems
- Cyclone tracking systems
Community Participation
Local communities play a major role in disaster preparedness and recovery.
Measures
- Public awareness programmes
- Evacuation drills
- First aid training
- Emergency shelters
Important UPSC Facts
- The Himalayan region is earthquake-prone
- The east coast is highly vulnerable to cyclones
- Floods are common in Assam and Bihar
- NDMA coordinates disaster management in India
- Early warning systems reduce disaster losses
Quick Revision Box
- Earthquake → Sudden crust movement
- Flood → Overflow of water
- Cyclone → Low-pressure storm system
- Drought → Lack of rainfall
- NDMA → Disaster management authority
- Preparedness → Disaster risk reduction
Mind Map – Disaster Management
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Disaster Management
- Earthquakes
- Floods
- Cyclones
- Droughts
- Landslides
- NDMA
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UPSC Geography Synopsis – English Version
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