Infrastructure development in the young Himalayan range is growing rapidly, and while many view it as significant progress, it also poses potential risks. Massive landslides have been observed, causing disruptions to traffic and even posing dangers to vehicles and passengers. One such incident was caught on camera, involving a Tata Nexon. Here’s what unfolded.
The passengers of a #TataNexon vehicle had a lucky escape when a sudden burst of water caused by #HeavyRainfall washed away their vehicle at Ribi Korong area on the #Pasighat–#Yingkiong road on Friday morning. pic.twitter.com/84ghoj8Jz6
— The Arunachal Times (@arunachaltimes_) July 28, 2023
The video was recorded by another motorist who had stopped at a safe distance from the landslide-prone area. However, it appears that the occupants of the Nexon were optimistic about crossing the zone before the landslide struck. Unfortunately, as they reached the spot, the force of the landslide hit the Nexon, destabilizing it. The Mahindra truck waiting behind it saw the landslide and took the vehicle in reverse.
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In the video, we can witness the passengers quickly exiting the vehicle and fleeing to safety. At the last moment, a person sitting in the rear seat managed to jump out, saving himself from harm. As the rocks and mud engulfed the Nexon, it plummeted into a 100-meter-deep ravine. Fortunately, no one was inside the car at the time, and therefore, no injuries were reported.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by such infrastructure development in the Himalayan region, and it highlights the importance of ensuring safety measures are in place to mitigate potential hazards.
Another incident became viral a few weeks ago. The incident happened in Dimapur, Nagaland. It showed that a few cars had stopped due to unknown reasons on the highway. The dashboard footage then captured a few small rocks falling down, followed by a massive boulder that came crashing down and hit the Tata Harrier. The impact crushed the rear of the Harrier.
Landslides in the Himalayan region
Landslides are a common phenomenon in the Himalayan region, especially during the monsoon season. The relatively young age of the Himalayan range makes it susceptible to landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. To ensure safety while driving in these areas, it is essential to remain vigilant and avoid getting caught in a landslide.
Typically, landslides begin with small stones falling, followed by larger debris like dirt, rocks, and boulders. Paying close attention to the road and being aware of potential signs of landslides is crucial. However, identifying such hazards at night can be challenging, making it even more important to exercise caution during these times.
Can you avoid landslides?
Although some landslide-prone regions are identified by the administration, landslides can occur anywhere, making it difficult to completely avoid them. The best approach is to avoid traveling during heavy rainfalls, but if you must travel, be vigilant and keep an eye out for any potential hazards.
Driving on mountainous roads poses various challenges for drivers. In cold conditions, black ice formation is a significant risk. This transparent ice forms quickly after sunset and can make the road surface appear wet, leading to a slippery surface. Black ice is particularly hazardous, especially when driving at high speeds. Therefore, it is essential to reduce speed and drive cautiously when encountering potentially wet surfaces, especially after sunset.
Another occasional threat in mountainous regions is flash floods. Although they do not occur frequently, mountain roads often act as drainage routes for higher-altitude areas. During extremely heavy rainfall, water can flow down onto the roads, increasing the risk of vehicles being swept away. However, such incidents are rare. Staying informed about weather conditions and potential hazards can help ensure a safer mountainous driving experience.
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