Deputy Commissioner Urges Swift Action to Prevent Landslide Disasters in Uttara Kannada
Karwar, August 22, 2024: With the increase in landslide incidents during the monsoon season, officials trained to detect early signs of landslides have been directed to promptly report any such indicators to the District Disaster Management Control Room.
during a training session held at the District Commissioner’s office on Thursday Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya stressed the importance of timely reporting.
She noted that the recent landslide in Shirur highlighted the urgency of taking preventive measures to avoid future disasters in the district. “The role of trained officials is crucial in this regard, as early warnings can help prevent loss of life,” Lakshmi Priya said.Heavy rains, floods, and cyclones are usually predicted well in advance, allowing authorities to mitigate damage. However, landslides develop gradually, making it essential to monitor early signs. The district has identified 439 landslide-prone areas through the Geological Survey of India (GSI), and officials from the forest, revenue, and police departments have received specialized training from geologists to detect landslide indicators. This training will aid in taking maximum precautions to avert potential disasters, she added.Officials, known as “Spotters,” are responsible for promptly reporting landslide signs. If such signs are detected early, authorities can reroute traffic and relocate residents to safer areas, thereby minimizing casualties. “The responsibility of preventing landslide-related disasters in the district rests heavily on these officials,” Lakshmi Priya emphasized.K.V. Maruti, Deputy Director General and Regional Mission Head of the Hyderabad GSI, spoke about the scientific monitoring of landslide zones. The GSI serves as the nodal agency for assessing and issuing warnings about landslide-prone areas across the country.
Landslide-prone zones have been categorized as severe, moderate, or general, with corresponding maps and information provided to relevant authorities. Maruti urged that development projects be planned scientifically, as deforestation, improper drainage systems, and construction blocking traditional water flow often contribute to landslides. He stressed that although landslides don’t occur suddenly, they are preceded by noticeable changes in the area, and monitoring these changes can prevent disasters. “Spars play a vital role in this process,” he said.Dr. R. Sajeev, GSI Director, highlighted the challenges posed by landslides in Uttara Kannada district and discussed the community-level measures needed to mitigate these disasters.The event was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Prakash Rajput, along with officials and staff from the forest, revenue, and police departments who participated in the training session.
