Avalanche warning issued to save lives
SRINAGAR, FEB 08: Kashmir Valley is prone to disasters with experts calling for various preventive measures to minimize the damages.
A massive snow avalanche hit Sarwal in Sonamarg on Thursday. However, there were no reports of loss of life or any damage to property.
The authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation and taking necessary steps for safety. Jammu and Kashmir management has already warned about avalanches across the region and are working to keep everyone safe
Earlier, on February 5, another avalanche struck the skiing area of Gulmarg resort in Baramulla district. Two skiers got trapped. However, they were rescued quickly by their fellow skiers and ski patrol.
A senior official said they have been issuing advisories for avalanches and flash floods. “All these advisories are issued to save lives of people and damage to property,” he added.
Kashmir Valley has been prone to disasters like landslides, avalanches, flash floods and land subsidence.
Mohammad Zubair, a researcher said Kashmir has been witnessing frequent earthquakes, avalanches and flash floods.
“As a result of its vulnerability to landslides, floods, earthquakes, and other climatic hazards, J&K has experienced numerous disasters throughout its history. However, the lack of a culture of disaster preparedness among the general public is worrisome,” he said.
He said the Himalayas are also witnessing an increasing threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Flooding (GLOF). “Avalanches and GLOFs remain a persistent threat to downstream communities. When a lake is built up, a major earthquake could cause an outburst and also avalanches,” he said.
GLOF is the term scientists use to describe the incident when the water levels of glacial lakes breach their boundaries, causing large amounts of water to flow into nearby streams and rivers. Experts attribute GLOFs to climate change and the melting of glaciers.
Most parts of Jammu and Kashmir come under Seismic Zone IV and V and are vulnerable to earthquakes. Experts give varied reasons for earthquakes in J&K including various faults run through this part of the Himalayas and exploding of gases. According to official figures of the Indian Meteorological Department over 30 earthquakes occur on average annually in J&K. Last five years, around 150 earthquakes hit J&K mostly with a magnitude of 3-5.
