Cyclone Ditwah: UPSC Mentor Analysis (GS-3 Disaster Management Masterclass)
Cyclone Ditwah, a cyclonic storm originating in the Southwest Bay of Bengal, exemplifies recurring vulnerabilities in India's eastern coastal belt while highlighting robust disaster preparedness mechanisms. From a UPSC perspective, this event perfectly integrates Geography (climatology), Disaster Management (response protocols), International Relations (neighborhood HADR), and Environment (climate change amplification).
Prelims facts :
UPSC Angle: India's Neighborhood First Policy in action – expect HADR assistance questions linking to SAGAR doctrine
Impact Metrics: 150+ flight cancellations (Chennai, Trichy), schools shut (10 districts), ₹500cr agri losses estimated
Deep UPSC Analysis (Mains Answer Framework)
1. Geographical Vulnerability (GS-1)
- Bay of Bengal's reverse temperature gradient creates cyclone hotbed (Nov peak season)
- Post-monsoon cyclones intensify due to warm sea surface temperatures (~29°C)
- TN-AP coast lacks natural barriers unlike Odisha/WB mangroves
2. Climate Change Amplification (GS-3 Environment)
Intensification Pattern:
• Rapid: 30 kmph/hr wind rise
• Erratic tracks due to shear changes
• Increased rainfall (400mm vs historical 200mm)
Linkage: IPCC AR6 warnings on Category 4+ cyclones rising 20% [8]
3. Disaster Preparedness Evolution (GS-3 DM)
Strengths Demonstrated:
- NDMA Guidelines operationalized (72hr early warning)
- Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (World Bank-funded) shelters functional
- MIYAWAKI forests in TN/AP reducing wind damage
Gaps Exposed:
- Urban flooding in Chennai (drainage overload)
- Fishermen safety (despite advisories)
- Inter-state coordination (TN-AP-Puducherry)
4. Economic & Livelihood Impact (GS-3 Economy)
Sectoral Losses:
• FISHERIES: 50,000 boats grounded (₹200cr)
• AGRICULTURE: Standing paddy destroyed (₹300cr)
• AVIATION: 150+ flights (₹50cr revenue loss)
PYQ Linkages & Answer Writing Strategy
Prelims:
Q Type: Match cyclone-origin-country
Options: Ditwah-Oman ✓
Mains Structure (150 words):
1. Intro: Cyclone stats + IMD response (2 lines)
2. Body: Multi-hazard impact + institutional response (8 lines)
3. Analysis: Climate change linkage + gaps (5 lines)
4. Way Forward: NDC strengthening, mangrove restoration (3 lines)
Keywords: SAGAR, NDMA, CRMP, Sendai Framework, IPCC AR6
Pro Tip: Quote "78,000 displaced Sri Lanka + 24 NDRF teams India" for data credibility in answers. Track IMD till Nov 30 evening!