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

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.1002/hyp.10919

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