What is a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF)? Analyse India’s vulnerabilities to GLOF. Is India prepared and equipped to handle a GLOF disaster?

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

6. What is a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF)? Analyse India’s vulnerabilities to GLOF. Is India prepared and equipped to handle a GLOF disaster? (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Down to EarthInsights on India

Why the question:

Three million Indians live in areas where a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) can happen at any time, the first global assessment of such areas has found.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about GLOF, India’s vulnerability and preparedness in tackling it.

Directive word: 

Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by defining a GLOF.

Body:

First, write about how vulnerable India is to a GLOF. Cite statistics to substantiate and previous GLOF disaster faced by India.

Next, write about preparedness of India in handling a GLOF disaster – mention the steps that have been already taken, their strengths and limitations. Mention further steps that can be taken in this regard.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.