GS Question

The occurrence of the 2004 tsunami was primarily caused by a massive undersea earthquake with a magnitude of 9.1-9.3 off the western coast of northern Sumatra, Indonesia. This earthquake triggered a series of destructive tsunamis that affected 14 countries including India. The factors responsible for the occurrence of this tsunami are as follows:

1. Undersea Tectonic Plate Movements: The Indian plate, Australian plate, Eurasian plate, and Burma plate meet in the Indian Ocean region. The movement and interaction of these plates led to the accumulation of stress and energy, which was suddenly released during the earthquake, generating the tsunami.

2. Subduction Zone: The tremors were caused by the subduction of the Indo-Australian plate under the Eurasian plate. This movement resulted in the displacement of a vast amount of water and the formation of the tsunami waves.

3. Lack of Warning Systems: At the time, several countries, including India, did not have an effective early warning system in place to detect and alert people about tsunamis. This lack of preparedness contributed to the devastating impact of the disaster.

The effects of the 2004 tsunami on life and the economy were catastrophic:

1. Loss of Life: The tsunami claimed the lives of approximately 230,000 people across the affected countries, with India accounting for around 18,000 fatalities.

2. Infrastructure Destruction: Coastal regions in India, particularly in Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, suffered significant damage to infrastructure, including houses, buildings, roads, and bridges. Fishing villages and coastal communities were particularly devastated.

3. Economic Impact: The tsunami resulted in huge economic losses due to the destruction of infrastructure, loss of livelihoods (especially in fishing and tourism sectors), and the cost of rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts. The total economic damage was estimated to be over $10 billion.

To reduce the risk and be prepared for such events, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of India issued guidelines in 2010. These guidelines suggest mechanisms for preparedness, which include:

1. Development of Early Warning Systems: Establishing a robust early warning system including effective communication networks, sensors, buoys, and sirens to detect and alert people about the impending tsunamis.

2. Capacity Building: Training and capacity building of local communities, government officials, and first responders to effectively respond during emergencies. This includes conducting mock drills, awareness campaigns, and promoting community-based disaster management.

3. Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Mapping: Conducting comprehensive risk assessments and vulnerability mapping of coastal areas to identify high-risk zones and develop appropriate mitigation measures.

4. Infrastructure Planning and Upgradation: Ensuring that infrastructures like coastal buildings, ports, and critical facilities are designed and constructed to withstand potential tsunami impacts.

5. Strengthening Institutional Framework: Coordinating and strengthening the institutional framework for disaster management at the national, state, and local levels. This includes the establishment of dedicated disaster management departments and regular coordination meetings.

By implementing these mechanisms, countries, including India, can significantly reduce the risk and impact of tsunamis, ensuring better preparedness, response, and recovery during such events.