Navigating Natural Hazards in Mountainous Topographies: Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities of Living

With a total of 16 chapters, it provides a holistic picture of this pressing environmental issue. First, this book delves into the geological and hydrological factors that make the Himalayan region susceptible to landslides and employs advanced geophysical methodologies to improve future hazard assessments. Additionally, it examines the susceptibility of these terrains to seismic activities and landslides using cutting-edge technological tools and multi-criteria decision-making frameworks to emphasize the critical role of innovation in disaster preparedness. Then, a significant portion of this book is devoted to investigating the societal dimensions of natural hazards. It delves into how catastrophes jeopardize housing infrastructure and explores the profound socioeconomic consequences on elderly populations living in rural, mountainous regions. As the narrative progresses, it highlights the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable development. Last section of this book advocates for innovative methods of hazard mitigation and proposes a combination of indigenous wisdom and contemporary scientific methodologies to develop resilience against natural disasters. In light of current trends, the book emphasizes transformative advancements in the disaster management sphere, focusing on the critical roles of early warning systems, community-centered engagement, and the emerging prominence of artificial intelligence in enhancing disaster monitoring and readiness measures. The book also presents detailed analyses of the ‘Ghost Villages’ phenomenon in Uttarakhand and the health consequences related to high-altitude tourism. These assessments offer insight into the intricate relationship between human societies and their environments, demonstrating how people adapt and interact with the natural landscapes they inhabit. Through this comprehensive examination, readers are provided with a broad understanding of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that arise from living in mountainous regions prone to natural disasters. This underscores the importance of incorporating diverse knowledge systems and leveraging technological advancements to build sustainable and resilient futures in the face of environmental adversity and climate change induced frequent extreme weather conditions.