Preventing Disaster and Managing Its Risk, Strengthening Resilience of Ecosystem for a Safer World-India Perspective on Himalaya

Dr. Anju Rathee Ahlawat

Abstract: The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is one of the most ecologically fragile yet strategically vital zones in the world. Intensifying climate change, accelerating glacial retreat, rising extreme weather events, and unscientific development have amplified disaster risks across the Himalayas. Cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) pose escalating threats to human settlements, infrastructure, and ecosystems. The 2025 Uttarkashi disaster vividly demonstrated the region?s vulnerability and the compounding impacts of meteorological anomalies and glacial dynamics. This paper examines the drivers of Himalayan disaster risks, scientific processes underlying extreme events, and the interplay of climate change with anthropogenic pressures. It explores the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), space-based monitoring, and policy interventions in strengthening disaster preparedness. It emphasizes ecosystem-based resilience, community-centered adaptation, and a future-ready governance framework integrating technology, scientific monitoring, and sustainable development. This study argues that only a synergistic balance between ecological safeguards, technological innovation, and participatory governance can ensure long-term resilience and sustainable development for Himalayan communities.

Keywords: Disaster Risk Reduction, Himalayas, Climate Change, Cloudburst, GLOF, AI/ML, Ecosystem Resilience, Uttarkashi Floods, Sustainable Development, NDMA, IHR

How to Cite?: Dr. Anju Rathee Ahlawat, "Preventing Disaster and Managing Its Risk, Strengthening Resilience of Ecosystem for a Safer World-India Perspective on Himalaya", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1070-1074, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251214054525, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251214054525