Joshimath Land Subsidence - History, Causes of Joshimath Sinking, Possible Solutions & More!

Joshimath, a picturesque town nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, has recently become the focal point of a geological phenomenon – land subsidence. This unsettling occurrence, characterized by the gradual sinking or settling of the Earth's surface, has raised significant alarm due to its impact on the town's structural integrity and the safety of its residents.

 In this article, we will delve into the factors contributing to the Joshimath land subsidence. We will explore the measures needed to address this pressing issue as needed for the UPSC IAS exams.

What is the Issue of Joshimath?

The issue of Joshimath is related to land subsidence. Land subsidence refers to the sinking or settling of the Earth's surface. In Joshimath, a town in Uttarakhand, India, land subsidence has become a significant concern. It has led to the sinking of the ground. This has caused damage to buildings, infrastructure, and natural resources in the area. This issue poses a threat to the safety and stability of the town and its residents.

Location of Joshimath

Joshimath is a picturesque hilly town nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It lies along the vital Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway, NH-7, serving as a crucial stopover for pilgrims and tourists on their way to spiritual and scenic destinations like Badrinath, Auli, Valley of Flowers, and Hemkund Sahib. Additionally, it houses one of the Indian Army's significant cantonments and is part of the high-risk seismic Zone-V. The town is crisscrossed by swift-flowing streams originating from the confluence of the Dhauliganga and Alaknanda rivers at Vishnuprayag. Joshimath also holds historical and religious importance as one of the four cardinal maths or monasteries established by Adi Shankara.

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Why is Joshimath Sinking?

The tale of Joshimath's sinking began in 2021 when residents reported alarming cracks appearing on their walls and buildings. This distressing phenomenon unfolded amidst the backdrop of frequent landslides and flooding episodes in the Chamoli district.

Causes 

The Uttarakhand government's expert panel, in 2022, discovered that various areas in Joshimath were experiencing land subsidence, a phenomenon marked by the gradual settling or sudden sinking of the Earth's surface. This unsettling occurrence can be attributed to a combination of natural and man-made factors:

• Site of an Ancient Landslide: Joshimath rests upon a deposit of sand and stone rather than solid bedrock, occupying the site of an ancient landslide. The undercutting of river currents from the nearby Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers exacerbates this precarious situation.
• Geography: The terrain comprises scattered rocks covered with debris from previous landslides, including boulders, gneissic rocks, and loose soil with limited bearing capacity. These highly weathered gneissic rocks possess low cohesive strength and tend to develop high pore pressure when saturated, especially during the monsoon season.
• Construction Activities: The region has witnessed a surge in construction activities, hydroelectric projects, and the widening of the National Highway. These activities have rendered the slopes increasingly unstable over the past few decades.
• Land Erosion: The constant flow of water from Vishnuprayag and its interactions with natural streams contribute to land erosion, compounding the city's plight.

Impact 

The repercussions of this land subsidence have been significant. Over 3000 people have been affected, with at least 66 families forced to flee their homes. An unsettling 561 houses have reported structural cracks, rendering them unsafe.

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What is Land Subsidence?

Land subsidence is a gradual sinking or sudden settlement of the Earth's surface. It primarily occurs due to the removal of underground resources like water, oil, natural gas, or minerals through activities such as pumping, fracking, or mining. Natural events like earthquakes, soil compaction, glacial isostatic adjustment, erosion, sinkhole formation, and even adding water to fine soils deposited by wind (loess deposits) can also trigger subsidence. Subsidence can affect vast areas, such as entire states or provinces, or localized regions, like a small section of your yard.

What is a Landslide?

A landslide refers to the movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope. It is a type of mass wasting, which encompasses any downward movement of soil and rock due to the influence of gravity. Landslides encompass five modes of slope movement: falls, topples, slides, spreads, and flows. These events can have devastating consequences, causing damage to structures, infrastructure, and the environment.

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Possible Solutions to Save Joshimath

Experts emphasize a multi-pronged approach to mitigate the crisis and protect the town's future:

• Development Moratorium: A crucial initial step is a complete halt to development and hydroelectric projects in the region. This pause will allow authorities to assess the situation comprehensively.
• Relocation: Urgent relocation of residents to safer areas is paramount. Once accomplished, the town's layout and planning should be reimagined, accounting for the evolving geographical dynamics.
• Drainage Planning: Addressing the city's drainage and sewer management issues is vital. Poor drainage systems contribute to soil instability as waste infiltrates the soil, further loosening it. The irrigation department has been tasked with devising a new drainage plan.
• Replantation: Replanting vegetation, particularly in vulnerable areas, can help retain soil capacity. Collaboration between the government, civil organizations, and military units like the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is essential.
• Advanced Weather Forecasting: The existing weather forecasting technology in Uttarakhand needs expansion and enhancement. Better coverage will enable timely warnings about local events.
• Scientific Studies: Taking scientific studies seriously is crucial. These studies provide clear insights into the root causes of the crisis, guiding the state's development policies.

Recommendations of Mishra Committee

• The Mishra Committee, in response to the issue of land subsidence in Joshimath, put forth several recommendations. These recommendations aim to address the problem and mitigate its impact. They include:
• Conducting a detailed survey and assessment of the affected area. This is to understand the extent and causes of land subsidence.
• Implementing measures to control groundwater extraction and manage water resources effectively to prevent further land subsidence.
• Implementing a comprehensive land-use plan to regulate construction activities. This is to prevent overloading of the land.
• Strengthening the infrastructure in the affected area to withstand ground movements and minimize damage.
• Creating awareness among the local community about the issue of land subsidence and the importance of adopting preventive measures.
• Establishing a monitoring system to continuously track ground movements. This helps take prompt action in case of any alarming changes.

As Joshimath grapples with the complex issue of land subsidence, proactive measures and scientific intervention are essential to mitigate further damage and ensure the safety of its residents. The situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and the preservation of the natural environment.

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