Have you noticed how news about landslides seems to pop up more often these days? Experts say it’s not just nature’s doing — humans and climate change are playing a big role too.
According to Asit Saha, Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), landslides are increasing in frequency and intensity because of a mix of reasons: unusual rainfall patterns, climate change, cutting down trees, and building on steep, unstable hills.
What is a landslide?
A landslide happens when rocks, mud, or soil suddenly slide down a slope or hill. Imagine shaking a jar filled with sand and pebbles — if you tilt it too much, everything tumbles down. That’s what happens on mountainsides, especially during heavy rain or earthquakes.
Recent incidents
In August 2025, a huge landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine killed at least 30 people after record-breaking rainfall.
In Uttarakhand, a cloudburst caused a mudslide that swept through Dharali village, leaving people dead and missing.
In Himachal Pradesh, heavy rains triggered landslides in Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba, blocking roads and destroying homes.