Explain the mechanism of slope failure and mass wasting with reference to landslide-prone areas. How does vegetation cover influence slope stability? Suggest nature-based mitigation approaches
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Topic: Geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Q2. Explain the mechanism of slope failure and mass wasting with reference to landslide-prone areas. How does vegetation cover influence slope stability? Suggest nature-based mitigation approaches (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question Increasing frequency and intensity of landslides in Indian hill regions have drawn attention to slope failure dynamics, ecological degradation, and the importance of sustainable, nature-based solutions in fragile terrains. Key demand of the question The question demands understanding of how and why slope failure and mass wasting occur, analysis of how vegetation stabilises slopes, and identification of nature-based methods for mitigating landslide risk. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Briefly define slope failure and mass wasting, and mention their relevance to disaster-prone mountainous regions in India. Body Explain the geomorphic and physical processes behind slope failure and types of mass wasting in landslide-prone areas. Analyse the role of vegetation in preventing slope destabilisation through root binding, runoff control, and soil retention. Suggest key nature-based mitigation techniques such as bioengineering, afforestation with native species, eco-DRR, and contour-based methods. Conclusion Highlight that nature-based mitigation, when combined with scientific planning, offers long-term resilience to landslide risks in ecologically sensitive zones.
Why the question Increasing frequency and intensity of landslides in Indian hill regions have drawn attention to slope failure dynamics, ecological degradation, and the importance of sustainable, nature-based solutions in fragile terrains.
Key demand of the question The question demands understanding of how and why slope failure and mass wasting occur, analysis of how vegetation stabilises slopes, and identification of nature-based methods for mitigating landslide risk.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction Briefly define slope failure and mass wasting, and mention their relevance to disaster-prone mountainous regions in India.
• Explain the geomorphic and physical processes behind slope failure and types of mass wasting in landslide-prone areas.
• Analyse the role of vegetation in preventing slope destabilisation through root binding, runoff control, and soil retention.
• Suggest key nature-based mitigation techniques such as bioengineering, afforestation with native species, eco-DRR, and contour-based methods.
Conclusion Highlight that nature-based mitigation, when combined with scientific planning, offers long-term resilience to landslide risks in ecologically sensitive zones.