Human activities lead to hill cracks and increased landslides in northern India
by Bhagyashree Barmann northern India’s Uttarakhand, a recent surge in landslide incidents has raised alarm among residents and authorities.
The incident took place in the village of Lilam Munsiyari, located in the Pithoragarh district on September 3.
Visuals showed the hill tumbling down, shattering into dust and making a huge noise as the visibility almost became nil due to the dust in the air.
The hills in this region, part of the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, have begun to crack due to increasing human activities, leading to dangerous landslides that have become more frequent in recent years.
According to reports, as locals reported new cracks appeared in the hills surrounding their village. These cracks are the result of ongoing construction, deforestation, and other human-induced activities that have destabilized the soil and rock formations.
The lush green landscape of Munsiyari, known for its scenic beauty and trekking routes, now presents a stark contrast with the visible signs of environmental degradation. Residents are seen moving cautiously, aware that another landslide could occur at any time.
The Pithoragarh district, a region renowned for its natural beauty and proximity to the India-Nepal border, is increasingly facing the consequences of unplanned development. The recent landslides have caused roadblocks, damaged homes, and disrupted daily life for the villagers. Authorities are now urging immediate action to mitigate further damage and protect the local communities.
This situation highlights the delicate balance between development and environmental preservation, especially in ecologically sensitive areas like the Himalayas.
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