A recent landslide in Vellarimala, Kerala’s Wayanad district, has left a trail of destruction, sweeping away entire neighborhoods and claiming lives. Dr. K Soman, a retired scientist and former head of the Resources Analysis Division of the National Centre for Earth Science Studies, sheds light on the geological factors that led to this disaster.

According to Dr. Soman, the landslide was a natural phenomenon, exacerbated by excessive rainfall and human activities. The region’s unique geology, featuring fractured rocks and acidic soil, created a perfect storm for disaster. Water accumulated in the faults of the rocks, eventually bursting forth and carrying soil, rocks, and vegetation with it.

The expert highlights the role of human activities in amplifying the impact of the landslide. Tea plantations, established by the British, altered the natural flow of water, leading to the development of towns and settlements in vulnerable areas. The leveling of small gullies and river terraces created a false sense of security, ignoring the river’s original course.

Dr. Soman warns that “water has memory,” recalling its ancient paths even after diversion. The recent landslide reclaimed its original course, destroying everything in its path. He emphasizes the dangers of attempting to trick nature by occupying the path of a river. “Nature has its own way of reclaiming its space,” he cautions.

The affected areas, Mundakkai and Chooralmala, have experienced landslides before, in 1984 and 2020. Dr. Soman notes that the presence of angular rocks suggests even more ancient landslides. Despite this history, human habitation continued, ignoring the warning signs. “It’s unfortunate that people were allowed to live in these areas, despite the precedent of landslides,” he remarks.

Dr. Soman distinguishes the Wayanad landslide from another recent disaster in Shirur, Karnataka, which was caused solely by human activity. In contrast, the Wayanad tragedy was a combination of natural and human-induced factors. He stresses the need for responsible land use planning, taking into account the region’s geological history and natural processes.

The devastating impact of the landslide serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the importance of respecting nature’s power and understanding the geological context of our surroundings. Dr. Soman’s words echo a pressing warning:

“We must learn to live with nature, not try to control it.” As the region begins to rebuild, it is crucial to heed this expert advice and prioritize sustainable development that harmonizes with nature’s rhythms.

Furthermore, Dr. Soman emphasizes the need for comprehensive risk assessments and proactive measures to mitigate the effects of landslides. This includes monitoring weather patterns, soil conditions, and geological activity to anticipate potential disasters. By taking a proactive approach, we can reduce the risk of such tragedies and create safer, more resilient communities.

In conclusion, the Vellarimala landslide is a stark reminder of nature’s unforgiving power and the importance of respecting our environment. As we move forward, let us prioritize sustainability, heed expert warnings, and work towards a future where we live in harmony with nature. With awareness and responsible action, we can minimize the impact of natural disasters and build a safer, more resilient world.