Which Indian town is sinking?
Asked 21 hours ago
Answer
Joshimath, a Himalayan town in Uttarakhand, India, is sinking due to unstable soil, ancient landslide debris, poor drainage, climate change, and aggressive construction. Large cracks have appeared in streets and homes, with over 800 buildings evacuated in 2023. The situation is worsened by unchecked construction and hydroelectric projects, leaving the town's future uncertain.
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Why this town in India is sinking
CBC News · Current
CBC News
Current
- Joshimath is sinking due to unstable soil, with large cracks damaging streets and hundreds of homes. 8s
- Over 800 buildings were evacuated in 2023 after the town subsided five centimetres in less than two weeks. 36s
- The town's vulnerability is worsened by its location on ancient landslide debris, poor drainage, and climate change impacts like heavier rains and glacial melt. 1m 10s
- Unchecked construction, including road expansion and hydroelectric projects, is exacerbating the crisis despite earlier government warnings against building in the area. 2m 29s
- Residents remain uncertain about the future, doubting that government intervention will provide a quick solution as the town continues to sink. 3m 32s
