Disaster Development Interface & its Impact on Emerging Vulnerability Scenario in Ladakh Region of North Western Himalayas

Abstract

The Union Territory of Ladakh located in the North-Western Himalayan Region is a multi-hazard prone region, highly vulnerable to seismic hazards, landslides, snow-avalanches, flash-floods and cloud bursts. Besides, anthropogenic hazards like border conflicts and political turmoil in neighboring region of Kashmir has resulted in huge economic loss to the region. Findings reveal that despite suffering losses by natural and human -induced disasters, the region has been positively affected by publicity generated by such events. These events managed to showcase the unique physiography, pristine environment and adventurous terrains of Ladakh, which in the subsequent years increased tourism sector as the main growth driver in the region. Furthermore, movies like LOC Kargil and 3 idiots highlighted the potential for adventurous tourism in the region ultimately attracting large number of domestic tourist to Ladakh. The exceptional growth in tourists and associated developmental sectors has resulted in enhanced levels of vulnerabilities in this environmentally fragile region on account of faulty planning practices. The study focuses on geo- physical as well as anthropogenic vulnerability analysis with the help of remote sensing and Analytical Hierarchical Processes (AHP) method. The results reveal that the region is facing an increase in climate change related vulnerabilities followed by geo- physical, socio-cultural and environmental vulnerabilities. The study highlights the need to manage emerging vulnerabilities through proper adaptation and mitigation measures by incorporation of geo physical factors in policy formulation. Proper implementation of these measures can ensure sustainable development in this fragile Himalayan region.