A clear and present danger: Ladakh's increasing vulnerability to flash floods and debris flows
Publication Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
5-2016
Abstract
This preliminary investigation of the recent spate of deadly flash floods and debris flows in Ladakh (India) over the last decade identifies uncontrolled development in hazardous locations as an important factor contributing to loss of life and property damage in this high mountain desert. The sediments exposed in the channel banks and on the alluvial fans of several mountain streams in the area indicate a long history of flash floods and debris flows resulting from intense storms, which appear to have increased in frequency within the last decade. The signposts of these recurrent hazards are being ignored as a growing economy, which is boosted by a well‐established tourism industry, is now driving development onto lands that are susceptible to floods and debris flow hazards. In this science briefing we argue that the increasing vulnerability in Ladakh should be addressed with sound disaster governance strategies that are proactive, rather than reactionary.
Discipline
Environmental Sciences
Research Areas
Political Science; Political Science
Publication
Hydrological Processes
Volume
30
Issue
22
First Page
4214
Last Page
4223
ISSN
0885-6087
Identifier
10.1002/hyp.10919
Publisher
Wiley: 12 months
Citation
ZIEGLER, Alan D., CANTARERO, Sebastian I., WASSON, Robert J., SRIVASTAVA, Pradeep, SPALZIN, Sonam, CHOW, Winston T. L., & GILLEN, Jamie.(2016). A clear and present danger: Ladakh's increasing vulnerability to flash floods and debris flows. Hydrological Processes, 30(22), 4214-4223.
Available at: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/soss_research/3072
Additional URL
https://doi.org/10.1002/hyp.10919