GS4 · 20 marks · 250 words

As the District Commissioner of Wayanad, Kerala, you are responsible for a district renowned for its lush, pristine forests and vibrant tourism sector. This year, however, the region faced unprecedented challenges due to exceptionally heavy rainfall, which far exceeded meteorological predictions. On one night in July, while residents of the Vellarimala hill ranges slept, the stability of the land beneath them began to deteriorate. The situation culminated in a catastrophic landslide, which has been recorded as the most severe landslide disaster in Kerala's history. The twin landslides engulfed the two villages, resulting in the tragic loss of over 360 lives and leaving many missing. The once picturesque hilly landscape was transformed into a scene of utter devastation, with rivers swelling and boulders crashing down. Immediately following the disaster, a contentious blame game ensued between center and state governments regarding adequate warnings. As you arrive at the scene, the sheer scale of destruction is overwhelming, with river waters too strong to allow access to the affected areas and the possibility that survivors might still be trapped within the landslide debris. This disaster highlights a critical issue of our era: the challenge of balancing environmental conservation with economic development. As the district grapples with rising populations, increased consumerism, and the pressures of development, the event underscores the pressing need for responsible stewardship of both natural resources and development practices. In the given circumstance answer the following: a) Identify the ethical issues in the given case. b) Give philosophical perspectives on the environment versus development debate. c) What will be your course of action in the given situation? d) What long-term strategies would you recommend to improve disaster preparedness in the region? [20M]

Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024

Syllabus: Case Studies on above issues.

How toppers approached it

From the one answer · about 450 words · 100% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • No separate opening1 of 1

Body

  • Points1 of 1

Close

  • A summary1 of 1

The toppers’ answers

More on Environmental Ethics

Obligation towards the non-human and the unborn: sustainability, animal welfare, intergenerational equity, development against ecology.

All GS4 questions on Environmental Ethics