In a recent report tabled in parliament, the Jal Shakti Ministry revealed that over 17 thousand lives were lost and property worth INR 2.61 lakh crore was damaged nationwide between 2012 to 2021 as a result of natural calamities. The report should serve as an eye-opener for all as it points to failures in implementation of disaster management policies and flood mitigation measures. Such a high rate of casualty and loss of property is indicative of the fact that despite repeated warnings, we have not been able to prevent encroachment, blocking of natural flow of rivers, destruction of forests and unplanned development in ecologically fragile areas. With global warming becoming a reality, it is high time now to re-examine current policies in order to effectively protect nature to mitigate loss of life and property. The feat can be achieved by adopting a zero tolerance policy towards any violations of protection and conservation laws.
It is unfortunate that despite repeated warnings by experts, we have continued to damage nature in the Himalayas, Sunderbans and Western Ghats, areas known for their abundant biodiversity in the guise of development. As a result, today the entire subcontinent faces the wrath of nature, once famous for its excellent climatic conditions. The weather in India has become truly unpredictable as heavy unseasonal rains or landslides have become the order of the day. Recently, four northern states Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi have experienced unprecedented floods which caused several deaths and serious destruction. In Himachal Pradesh, a famous tourist spot in Manali has been damaged so intensely by the recent heavy downpour that it will take years for it to get back to normal. Other not so popular destinations of the state too have faced similar destruction. Such disaster could have been averted if the authorities had prevented mushrooming of hotels and resorts on the banks of the River Beas. The national capital Delhi also faces a similar situation, as human habitats on the Yamuna floodplains have completely blocked the natural drainage system of the city. Similarly, destruction of mangroves in Sunderban or acres of forests in Western Ghats have made these places vulnerable to natural calamities.
To minimise damage and loss of life scientific innovations should be utilised, modern technology can now forecast weather more accurately and can provide more time to move to safety. Taking a lesson from the super cyclone that left hundreds dead, Odisha has now built enough shelters to save humans and animals and in the process has managed to bring down the number of casualties during such eventualities. It is quite unfortunate that other states are yet to follow Odisha’s footsteps in disaster management measures. In this context, the Centre, in no uncertain terms, should ask erring states to take necessary precautions to prevent damage to life and property in the wake of nature’s fury. Any attempt to destroy nature should be dealt with firmly, the priority should be to maintain balance between the natural environment and human development.
