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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 02/06/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (02-06-2025).

📝 Mains Question (GS Paper 3 – Disaster Management | Environment | Infrastructure):

Q. The Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Project (LSHEP) has raised concerns about seismic risk, environmental safety, and downstream impact. In this context, critically examine the disaster management challenges of large hydroelectric projects in seismically active regions like Northeast India. Suggest measures to reconcile development with safety and sustainability.

📘 Model Answer

Introduction

Hydroelectric power is a cornerstone of India’s renewable energy strategy, especially in resource-rich but infrastructure-deficient regions like the Northeast. The Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Project (LSHEP), a 2,000 MW project located on the Assam-Arunachal border, is India’s largest such under-construction project. However, its location in Seismic Zone V, combined with public concerns over flooding, biodiversity loss, and displacement, presents a classic development vs disaster risk dilemma.

Disaster Management Challenges of Large Dams in Seismic Zones

Challenge	Explanation
Seismic Vulnerability	LSHEP lies in Seismic Zone V; dam failure during a major quake could trigger catastrophic floods downstream.
Sedimentation	High silt load in Himalayan rivers reduces reservoir life and increases pressure on dam structure.
Flash Flood Risk	Sudden release of water during emergencies can flood downstream areas like Dhemaji and Lakhimpur.
Biodiversity Disruption	Impacts migratory fish (e.g., golden mahseer), aquatic ecology, and riparian habitats.
Displacement & Livelihoods	Affects agriculture, fisheries, and homesteads of river-dependent communities in Assam.

Case Study: Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Project (LSHEP)

Location: Gerukamukh, Arunachal-Assam border
River: Subansiri – largest Brahmaputra tributary
Capacity: 2,000 MW
Timeline: Delayed over a decade due to legal, environmental, and public resistance
Recent Action: NHPC’s safety awareness program in flood-prone Dhemaji

Steps Taken for Risk Mitigation

Dam Design: Built to withstand up to 8.5 magnitude earthquakes
Emergency Spillways and shock-absorbing infrastructure
Real-time Seismograph Monitoring & structural health sensors
Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) with local administrations
Environmental Management Plan (EMP) as per EIA norms

Way Forward: Reconciling Development and Safety

A. Engineering & Scientific Measures

🛰️ Use satellite-based real-time monitoring for slope movement and structural strain
📊 Conduct third-party seismic safety audits periodically
💧 Build check dams and silt traps upstream to reduce sediment load

B. Policy & Regulatory Strengthening

🏛️ Enforce stricter Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) with cumulative basin impact studies
📑 Update Disaster Management Plans to include dam-specific evacuation protocols
🧾 Mandate community consultation and public disclosure of safety reviews

C. Community Preparedness

📢 Conduct regular mock drills and school awareness programs in downstream villages
🛖 Establish safe shelters and embankments along floodplains
👥 Empower panchayats with funding under State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)

Conclusion

Projects like LSHEP highlight the complex interplay between renewable energy goals and ecological sensitivity. While hydropower is essential for energy transition, it must not come at the cost of safety and public trust. A resilience-oriented approach—combining advanced engineering, transparent governance, and grassroots preparedness—is the only path to sustainable infrastructure in seismic zones like Assam.

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