Item: Characteristics of Avalanche Accidents in Western Himalayan Region, India
-
-
Title: Characteristics of Avalanche Accidents in Western Himalayan Region, India
Proceedings: 2002 International Snow Science Workshop, Penticton, British Columbia
Authors:
- Ashwagosha Ganju [ Snow & Avalanche Study Establishment ]
- Naresh K Thakur [ Snow & Avalanche Study Establishment ]
- Vijay Rana [ Snow & Avalanche Study Establishment ]
Date: 2002
Abstract: Avalanches caused considerable damage initially to the inhabitants of Himalayan belt but lately only a small proportion of the original inhabitants of Himalayan region have suffered due to avalanche menace. The inhabitants, after initial suffering settled their dwellings at safe places through logic as well as trial and error method. The hazard, however, increased with the movement of persons in the inner belts of Himalayan region. The movement this time was not for the settlement but for carrying out the various tasks in the high altitude snow bound regions. The paper analyzes the evolution and progress of avalanche accidents in Western Himalayan region. The cause of some of the major avalanche disasters was found to be unprecedented weather situation that caught people off guard. The authors opine that with the increasing population and increased activity in the Himalaya belt like winter sports, adventure tourism, refuge in hills etc., the threat is likely to assume greater proportion in near future. While avalanche forecasting models are being refined and fine-tuned and better equipment are being developed for safe travel through avalanche terrain, emphasis in the Western Himalayan region should also be given to awareness and quality education program. This will help the pedestrians to take adequate precautionary measures while negotiating avalanche slopes.
Language of Article: English
Presenters: Unknown
Keywords: accidents, slopes, forecasting, weather
Page Number(s): 200-207
Subjects: avalanche accidents avalanche forecasting potential avalanche slopes
-
Digital Abstract Not Available
-