Introduction
A disaster is a sudden, catastrophic event that disrupts the normal functioning of society, causing widespread human, material, economic, or environmental losses. Disasters can be natural or man-made, and their impacts are often intensified by the vulnerability of the affected community. India, due to its diverse geography and climatic conditions, is highly prone to natural disasters. This answer provides a definition of disaster and offers an overview of the major natural disasters that frequently occur in India.
Definition of Disaster
A disaster is defined by the United Nations as “a serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic or environmental losses and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources.” Disasters may result from natural hazards or human-induced events.
Natural disasters are caused by environmental and geological processes, such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones, droughts, landslides, and tsunamis.
Overview of Natural Disasters in India
1. Earthquakes
India is highly prone to earthquakes, especially in the Himalayan and north-eastern regions. The country is divided into four seismic zones (II to V), with Zone V being the most severe. Major past earthquakes include the Bhuj earthquake in Gujarat (2001), the Uttarkashi earthquake (1991), and the Kashmir earthquake (2005).
2. Floods
Floods are among the most common natural disasters in India, affecting states like Bihar, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Monsoon rains, river overflows, and poor drainage systems often result in urban and rural flooding. The 2018 Kerala floods and 2022 Assam floods caused severe devastation.
3. Cyclones
The coastal states of India, such as Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, are frequently hit by tropical cyclones from the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Cyclones like Fani (2019), Amphan (2020), and Yaas (2021) caused massive damage to infrastructure and livelihoods.
4. Droughts
Droughts occur due to prolonged dry spells and failure of monsoons, severely affecting agriculture and water availability. States like Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Karnataka are frequently affected. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of droughts.
5. Landslides
Heavy rains, deforestation, and unregulated construction in hilly areas lead to landslides, particularly in the Himalayan region and the Western Ghats. States like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Kerala are highly vulnerable.
6. Tsunamis
The Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004 was a wake-up call for India. Coastal states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands faced severe damage. Tsunamis are rare but extremely destructive.
7. Heatwaves and Cold Waves
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, are also becoming more common in India. Heatwaves in northern and central India have caused hundreds of deaths in recent years, while cold waves affect states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Conclusion
India is highly vulnerable to a variety of natural disasters due to its geographical diversity and climatic conditions. These disasters cause immense damage to life, property, and the environment, impacting development and livelihoods. Therefore, disaster preparedness, community awareness, early warning systems, and sustainable planning are crucial for reducing the impact of these calamities. Strengthening disaster management systems at the national, state, and local levels is essential for building a resilient India.