Cyclone & Flood Management — Set 13

Correct Answer: D. 2000s–2010s

The correct answer is 2000s–2010s. The most significant reduction in cyclone-related deaths in India occurred during the 2000s–2010s, following major investments in early warning systems, the establishment of NDMA and NDRF, construction of cyclone shelters, and community-based disaster preparedness. The contrast between the 1999 Odisha cyclone (10,000+ deaths) and the 2019 Cyclone Fani (under 90 deaths despite similar intensity) illustrates this dramatic improvement over two decades. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: B. Assisting in last-mile evacuation and community preparedness

Odisha's trained community disaster volunteers ('aapda mitra' or disaster friends) played a crucial role in last-mile evacuation assistance, community awareness, and first response during Cyclone Fani preparations and aftermath. These trained volunteers helped reach the most vulnerable communities in remote coastal villages. Community-based disaster management through trained local volunteers has been a key element of Odisha's successful cyclone response model.

Correct Answer: C. ₹1 lakh crore

Cyclone Amphan caused damage estimated at over ₹1 lakh crore (approximately USD 13 billion) in West Bengal alone, making it one of the costliest cyclone disasters in Indian history. The storm destroyed infrastructure, housing, agriculture, and caused extensive damage to the Sundarbans ecosystem. West Bengal received significant central government assistance for post-Amphan reconstruction.

Correct Answer: B. Pressure surge (inverted barometer effect)

The low atmospheric pressure at the centre (eye) of a cyclone causes a pressure surge, also known as the inverted barometer effect, where the sea level rises below the low-pressure area due to reduced atmospheric pressure pushing down on the water. This pressure surge, combined with wind-driven storm surge, contributes to the overall coastal flooding during cyclone landfall. A 1 hPa drop in pressure can raise sea level by approximately 1 cm.

Correct Answer: B. Post-monsoon and pre-monsoon seasons

Cyclone activity in the Bay of Bengal peaks during the post-monsoon season (October–December) and the pre-monsoon season (April–June), making these the two cyclone seasons for the Bay of Bengal. The southwest monsoon period (July–September) actually suppresses cyclone formation in most years. This bimodal cyclone season pattern is unique to the North Indian Ocean compared to other cyclone basins globally.

Correct Answer: B. Severity and urgency of action required (green/yellow/orange/red)

IMD's colour-coded warning system for cyclones indicates the severity of the threat and the urgency of action required: Green (be updated), Yellow (be prepared), Orange (be ready), and Red (take action). This system helps standardize communication with the public and authorities, ensuring appropriate response based on the level of threat. The colour-coded system is used across different hazards including cyclones, heavy rainfall, and heat waves.

Correct Answer: B. IMD with its designated aircraft

IMD conducts cyclone reconnaissance flights using dedicated aircraft to gather direct atmospheric data from within and around cyclone systems, supplementing satellite and radar data. These flights collect temperature, pressure, wind, and humidity data from inside the cyclone. Aircraft reconnaissance provides critical data for improving cyclone intensity estimates and track forecasts.

Correct Answer: B. A system providing weather-based safety warnings to fishermen at sea

The Integrated Warning and Preparedness System for fishermen provides timely weather-based safety warnings to fishermen venturing into the sea, including cyclone warnings, high wind alerts, and rough sea conditions. These warnings are disseminated through SMS, radio, sirens, and display boards at fishing harbours. Protecting the fishing community — who are among the most exposed to cyclone-related risks — has been a major focus of India's cyclone preparedness.

Correct Answer: B. Elevated plinth levels and reinforced concrete construction

Flood-resilient and cyclone-resistant housing promoted in India's coastal areas features elevated plinth levels (to reduce flood water entry), reinforced concrete frames, wind-resistant roofing systems, and strategically placed openings to reduce wind pressure. The government promotes construction of pucca cyclone-resistant homes through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in disaster-prone areas. Such housing significantly reduces damage and casualties during cyclone events.

Correct Answer: B. Damodar Valley — major coal and industrial belt

The Damodar River, historically known as the 'Sorrow of Bengal,' is also known for running through the Damodar Valley, which is one of India's most important coal mining and industrial regions including Jharkhand and West Bengal. The Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) developed the river basin for comprehensive flood control, power generation, and irrigation. This region is sometimes called the 'Ruhr of India' for its industrial significance.