UPSC DAW 06th October 2025 Mains Answer Writing - 2026

Question

Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention components of the important components of National Landslide Risk Management strategy. [250 Words,15 Marks] 

Model Answer

Paper 

GS I 

Subject 

Geography 

Topic 

Landslides 

Syllabus As Per Notification 

Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes,    Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., 

Approach: 

Introduction 

Brief about significant loss by Landslide. 

Body 

Discuss about the Causes of Landslides and Effects of Landslides. 

National Landslide Risk Management Strategy. 

Conclusion 

Conclude your answer with a significant future stick approach. 

 Introduction 

A landslide is defined as the movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope. Landslides are a type of "mass wasting" which denotes any down-slope movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity. 

Body 

Causes of Landslides:  

Geological causes: Weak, sensitive and weathered material, presence of joints and fissures, variation in physical properties such as permeability. 

For example: In Himachal Pradesh steep slopes with loose soil and rock are more prone to landslides.  

Morphological causes: Tectonic or volcanic uplift, erosion due to wind and water, higher deposition of load on the slope or its crest, removal of vegetation. 

For example: In Assam heavy rainfall can saturate the soil, causing it to become unstable and slide downhill.  

Physical causes: Intense rainfall, earthquake/volcanic eruption, rapid snow melt/freeze. 

For example: The 2015 Nepal earthquake triggered several landslides in the Himalayan region.  

Anthropogenic causes: Excavation of the slope or its toe, deposition of load on the slope, drawdown of reservoir, deforestation, mining, irrigation and artificial vibration. 

For example: In 2018, 17 people were killed by a landslide caused by illicit mining in Himachal Pradesh.  Effects of Landslides:  

Loss of Life and Property: 

Landslides can cause significant casualties and destroy homes, buildings, and infrastructure. For example: The 2020 landslide in Pettimudi, Kerala, resulted in the loss of many lives and homes.  

Disruption of Infrastructure: 

Roads, bridges, and utilities are often damaged, leading to isolation of communities and disruption of services. For example: The 2013 Uttarakhand landslide severely affected transportation and communication networks.  

Environmental Degradation: 

Landslides lead to the loss of vegetation and wildlife habitats, affecting biodiversity. For example: The landslides in the Western Ghats have led to significant environmental damage.  

Economic Losses: 

The cost of recovery and rehabilitation after landslides is substantial. For example: The 2024 landslide in Wayanad, Kerala, caused significant damage to infrastructure and claimed several lives.  National Landslide Risk Management Strategy:  

Hazard Mapping: 

Identifying and mapping landslide-prone areas helps in planning and implementing preventive measures. For example: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) conducts landslide hazard zonation mapping.  

Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: 

Implementing technology to predict and warn about potential landslides can save lives and reduce damage. For example: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) uses satellite data for landslide monitoring.  

Awareness Programs: 

Educating communities about landslide risks and preparedness helps in reducing vulnerability. For example: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) conducts awareness campaigns.  

Capacity Building and Training: 

Training local authorities and communities in landslide management enhances their ability to respond effectively. For example: NDMA and GSI provide training programs.  

Regulations and Policies: 

Formulating policies for land use and construction in vulnerable areas ensures safer development practices. For example: The National Building Code of India includes guidelines for construction in landslide-prone areas.  

Stabilization and Mitigation Measures: 

Engineering solutions, such as retaining walls, slope stabilization, and drainage systems, help in preventing landslides. For example: The use of bioengineering techniques is also promoted. 

Conclusion 

Along with the above steps, there is a greater need for public awareness and community involvement in catastrophe risk reduction. For instance, the government of Maharashtra has started a program to teach people how to deal with and respond to disasters. Thus, holistic and dedicated efforts are needed to move towards disaster-resilient infrastructure and ensure sustainable development.