A clear and present danger: Ladakh's increasing vulnerability to flash floods and debris flows |
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| Authors: | Alan D Ziegler Sebastian I Cantarero Robert J Wasson Pradeep Srivastava Sonam Spalzin Winston T L Chow Jamie Gillen |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Geography Department, National University of Singapore, Singapore;2. Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore;3. Institute of Water Policy, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore;4. Wadia Institute for Himalayan Geology, Dehra Dun, India;5. Archeological Survey of India, Srinagar, India |
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| 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. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
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| Keywords: | floods vulnerability debris flows tourism climate change |
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