By the students of Science Communication, Doon University (Aayesha Rawat, Divyanshi Kabsuri, Manisha Rawat, and Varsha Negi) under supervision of course advisor Dr Rashi Mishra
The revered gateway to pilgrimages like Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib, and a popular destination for skiing at Auli, Joshimath is facing an escalating crisis as severe land subsidence jeopardises its future. Nestled at 1,875 metres above sea level in Chamoli district, the town has witnessed alarming structural damage, forcing numerous families to abandon their homes for government-established relief centres. This issue surfaced in October 2021, with cracks appearing in several homes; now, over 760 houses across the town’s nine wards show significant to minor damage.
Experts highlight that Joshimath rests on ancient landslide material—sand and stone deposits rather than solid rock—making it ill-suited to support heavy construction. Rapid development, including hydroelectric projects and the expansion of the National Highway, coupled with shifting climate conditions and intense rainfall, has accelerated soil erosion and destabilised the area’s slopes. As population density grows, so does the burden on the land, with the influx of hotels, resorts, and bustling markets exacerbating the crisis.
The Department of Geology at Doon University describes land subsidence as the downward movement of the Earth’s crust, driven by factors like seismic activity, excessive water extraction, and disrupted drainage patterns. In Joshimath’s high-seismic zone, weak soils and complex geological conditions compound the issue. Adding pressure are increasing construction activities and environmental changes, which intensify ground movement, especially during heavy rain and landslides.
The Geology team is actively working with government agencies, including the National Disaster Management System (NDMS), to assess affected areas and assist with disaster prevention and relocation efforts. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive forecasts using advanced digital topography, remote sensing, and computer modelling to address multi-hazard threats like landslides, flash floods, and sediment-related issues. The primary drivers of this crisis include unrestrained construction, extensive drilling for infrastructure, and environmental degradation. Joshimath’s soft soils and fragile terrain cannot sustain such activity without consequences, as shown by the damage to homes and infrastructure, which has left residents concerned and demanding action. To mitigate further damage, experts recommend sustainable development practices that prioritise environmental conservation, rigorous geotechnical assessments, and responsible urban planning. Addressing deforestation and limiting construction are also essential to preserving the landscape’s stability. The community calls for a proactive approach to protect both lives and livelihoods from the threats of land subsidence.
This research underscores the urgent need for informed action to safeguard Joshimath and similar regions, balancing development with environmental sustainability to ensure safety for generations to come.
