300,000 people live in high-risk Himalayan zones as built-up land grew 45%
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Nuclear & new energy technology· Prelims + Mains·
Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Adaptation: a GS3 case study on ecological fragility.
Why in news
A study in Scientific Reports highlights that 300,000 people reside in high-risk Himalayan zones where built-up land expanded by 45% between 2016 and 2023.
Background
The study, conducted by researchers from the UK, Nepal, and India, found a 78% increase in development near glacial lakes. It identifies significant risks to infrastructure and tourism due to climate-driven disasters.
Facts for Prelims
- FactBuilt-up land in high-risk Himalayan zones grew by 45% between 2016 and 2023
- FactDevelopment near glacial lakes rose by 78% during the same period
- FactAt least 300,000 people are currently living in these high-risk zones
Prelims practice question
What was the percentage increase in development near glacial lakes in high-risk Himalayan zones between 2016 and 2023?
- (a)45%
- (b)78%
- (c)60%
- (d)90%
Show answer
Answer: (b) 78% — The study found a 78% increase in development near glacial lakes during the specified period.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the challenges of balancing infrastructure development with disaster risk reduction in ecologically fragile Himalayan regions.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Regulatory gap: Inadequate enforcement of zoning rules in high-altitude glacial lake proximity
- Climate vulnerability: Increased risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) threatening tourism and infrastructure
Keywords: Disaster Risk Reduction · Climate Adaptation · Zoning Regulations · Ecological Fragility · Glacial Lake Outburst Floods
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.