Analyze the environmental challenges posed by large dam projects in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Examine their specific role in triggering seismic activity and associated risks.
Summary
> **Topic:** Salient features of world’s physical geography. **Topic:** Salient features of world’s physical geography. **Q1. Analyze the environmental challenges posed by large dam projects in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Examine their specific role in triggering seismic activity and associated risks. (10 M)** *Difficulty Level: Medium* *Reference: NIE* > **Why the Question** Growing concerns about the environmental and seismic risks posed by large dam projects in the fragile Himalayan
Exam Brief
GS-1Himalayan dam projects raise environmental and seismic concerns. UPSC asks about balancing development with ecological risks in fragile zones. Focus on impact assessment and mitigation.
Key Facts
- Himalayan dams cause deforestation and siltation.
- Reservoir-induced seismicity is a key risk.
- Dams can amplify tectonic stress.
- Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are a related hazard.
Prelims — What UPSC Might Ask
- What is reservoir-induced seismicity?
- What are the environmental impacts of large dams?
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Source Article Content
Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography. Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography.
Q1. Analyze the environmental challenges posed by large dam projects in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Examine their specific role in triggering seismic activity and associated risks. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the Question Growing concerns about the environmental and seismic risks posed by large dam projects in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, emphasizing the need for sustainable development in the region. Key Demand of the Question The question demands an analysis of the environmental challenges posed by dam construction in the Himalayas and a specific examination of how such projects contribute to seismic activity and associated risks. Structure of the Answer Introduction Briefly describe the ecological and geological sensitivity of the Himalayan region and its vulnerability to large-scale human interventions like dam-building. Body Environmental challenges posed by large dam projects: Highlight issues like deforestation, siltation, biodiversity loss, and displacement of local communities. Specific role in triggering seismic activity: Explain reservoir-induced seismicity, tectonic stress amplification, and risks like glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Conclusion Conclude with the need for sustainable hydropower development and regional cooperation to mitigate risks while addressing energy needs responsibly Why the Question Growing concerns about the environmental and seismic risks posed by large dam projects in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, emphasizing the need for sustainable development in the region.
Key Demand of the Question The question demands an analysis of the environmental challenges posed by dam construction in the Himalayas and a specific examination of how such projects contribute to seismic activity and associated risks.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction Briefly describe the ecological and geological sensitivity of the Himalayan region and its vulnerability to large-scale human interventions like dam-building.
• Environmental challenges posed by large dam projects: Highlight issues like deforestation, siltation, biodiversity loss, and displacement of local communities. • Specific role in triggering seismic activity: Explain reservoir-induced seismicity, tectonic stress amplification, and risks like glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Conclusion Conclude with the need for sustainable hydropower development and regional cooperation to mitigate risks while addressing energy needs responsibly