The devastating landslides in Kerala, caused by relentless heavy rains, have claimed the lives of dozens, with scores still missing. This tragic event reveals a stark reality. That India has fallen short in protecting its citizens despite having access to advanced early warning systems and safety measures.
Kerala, known for its monsoon rains, has a history of such natural disasters. Yet, the severity of the recent landslides reveals a glaring gap in disaster preparedness and response. The state has access to sophisticated meteorological technology capable of predicting extreme weather events with remarkable accuracy. However, the deployment of these early warning systems appears insufficient or inadequately utilized, leaving communities vulnerable.
In 2018, Kerala experienced similar catastrophic floods and landslides, prompting a nationwide call for improved disaster management. The lessons from that calamity should have spurred significant advancements in early warning dissemination and community preparedness. Yet, the recurrence of such tragic events points to systemic failures.
The technology to forecast heavy rainfall and potential landslides exists and has proven effective in other regions. Modern early warning systems can alert authorities and residents days in advance, providing crucial time to evacuate and implement safety measures. Additionally, robust communication networks can ensure that even the most remote communities receive timely alerts.
The current disaster highlights not just the ferocity of nature but also the dire consequences of inadequate human action. India's disaster management framework needs urgent reinforcement, incorporating real-time data analysis, comprehensive risk assessments, and community-level engagement. The government must invest in resilient infrastructure and enforce land-use regulations to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.
India's failure to protect its citizens in Kerala should be the last of its kind. It is necessary that authorities leverage available technology to prevent further loss of life and ensure that no more communities are left at the mercy of preventable disasters.
