New Research Paves Way For Srinagar-Bandipora Highway’s Landslide Threats

Rehana Maqbool

Kashmir, 30 Oct: The Srinagar-Bandipora highway in the rugged terrain of the Northwest Himalayas, has long served as a lifeline for the Kashmir valley. However, this vital highway faces constant threats from landslides.

To address this pressing issue, a recent study harnessed the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Google Earth Engine.

The study reveals that landslides in the region can stem from both natural factors, such as earthquakes, and human activities, including construction and mining.

This phenomenon has established India as the global leader in fatal landslides, with the Northwest Himalayas, including Jammu and Kashmir, making a significant contribution to this alarming statistic.

Mohammad Ashraf Ganaie, one of the author of this research said, “It is a story of innovation, challenge, and resilience, offering a promising path forward in securing the lifeline of the Srinagar-Bandipora highway.”

In their research, they said, “Landslides, aside from their tragic toll, have severe implications for transportation networks. They disrupt the flow of goods and people, hampering economic and social development in the region.”

Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, the study emphasizes the pivotal role of geoscientific technology and GIS tools in assessing landslide hazards.

Using the Frequency Ratio Model, the researchers created a detailed landslide susceptibility map that identifies areas ranging from very low to very high-risk. This map takes into account various factors, “such as slope gradient, land use, proximity to lineaments, and lithology, which deals with the physical characteristics of rocks.”

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This research isn’t merely academic; “it offers tangible insights into landslide susceptibility in the North Kashmir Himalaya. By identifying high-risk areas, it paves the way for informed decisions and strategic mitigation efforts.”

In doing so, it plays a crucial role in securing the safety and well-being of the region’s residents, ensuring that the lifeline of the Srinagar-Bandipora highway remains unimpeded in the face of landslide threats.


Additional reporting by Towhida Bhat, Mehnaza Akhter and Naila Bhat.

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