What are the risk reduction measures of Landslides and Snow Avalanches?

In order to consider risk reduction measures, we should first have an idea of likely risks from landslides and snow avalanches. These are as follows:

i) Geographical risks:

• Spread and deposition of debris
• Blocking of Streams

ii) Engineering risks:

• Buildings
• Roads
• Bridges
• Communications

iii) Medical risks:

• Death
• Injury
• Shock

iv) Socio-economic risks:

• Loss of family
• Loss of homes
• Loss of crops
• Loss of employment

The above-mentioned risks can be reduced by adopting risk reduction measures which can be divided in two categories, viz, (a) Risk Control Measures and (b) Risk Assistance Measures;

Risk Control Measures

i) hazards mapping

ii) Preparation of hazard Zonation Maps

iii) Community education and awareness

iv) Land-use regulations

v) Advance planning

vi) Relocation of vulnerable settlements

Vii) Strengthening of weak structures

viii) Creating adequate drainage to avoid accumulation of water and snow

Risk Assistance Measures

i) Monitoring and Warning

ii) Search and Rescue

iii) Medical assistance

iv) Damage assessment

v) Economic assistance for rehabilitation and reconstruction.