Explain briefly the ecological and economic benefits of solar energy generation in India with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words)

Core Demand of the QuestionWhat are Tsunamis (Introduction)How Tsunamis are FormedWhere Tsunamis are FormedConsequences of Tsunamis

Introduction

Tsunamis are series oflarge sea wavesgenerated bysudden displacement of seawaterdue to undersea earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. They travel at high speeds across oceans and cause massive destruction upon reachingshallow coastal areas.

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How Tsunamis are Formed

• Undersea Earthquakes:Subduction zone quakes causevertical seabed displacement, pushing water upward. This sudden uplift generates powerful waves that evolve into tsunamis.Eg:The2004 Indian Ocean tsunamifrom a 9.1 magnitude quake near Sumatra.


• Eg:The2004 Indian Ocean tsunamifrom a 9.1 magnitude quake near Sumatra.


• Volcanic Eruptions:Submarine eruptions or the collapse of volcanic flanks displace huge water volumes.Eg:1883 Krakatoa eruption, Indonesia.


• Eg:1883 Krakatoa eruption, Indonesia.


• Landslides/Glacier Falls:Coastal or submarine landslides push water upward, creating localized tsunamis.Eg: 1958 Lituya Bay, Alaska, produced a 500 m wave.


• Eg: 1958 Lituya Bay, Alaska, produced a 500 m wave.

Where Tsunamis are Formed

• Pacific Ocean (Ring of Fire):Most tsunamis originate here due to intense tectonic subduction zones (Japan, Chile, Alaska).


• Indian Ocean Margins:Seismic zones like the Sunda Trench near Sumatra and the Andaman–Nicobar region.


• Mediterranean and Atlantic:Smaller but destructive tsunamis from submarine quakes and landslides (Lisbon 1755 earthquake).


• Polar Regions:Glacial collapses in Greenland and Alaska sometimes trigger local tsunamis.

Fig: Tsunami Zones

Consequences of Tsunamis

• Human Losses and Displacement:Large coastal populations face massive casualties and forced migration.Eg:The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami killed over2.3 lakh people.


• Eg:The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami killed over2.3 lakh people.


• Economic and Infrastructure Damage:Ports, fisheries, industries, and tourism infrastructure collapse under inundation.Eg:The2011 Japan tsunamicaused$235 billionin damages.


• Eg:The2011 Japan tsunamicaused$235 billionin damages.


• Environmental Degradation:Saltwater intrusion into groundwater and farmland, along with mangrove destruction, disrupt ecosystems.Eg:In Tamil Nadu (2004), extensive paddy fields turned saline and unproductive.


• Eg:In Tamil Nadu (2004), extensive paddy fields turned saline and unproductive.


• Public Health and Social Crisis:Spread of diseases, scarcity of drinking water, and psychological trauma prolong recovery.Eg:Cholera and diarrheal outbreaks occurred in Sri Lanka and Indonesia post-2004.


• Eg:Cholera and diarrheal outbreaks occurred in Sri Lanka and Indonesia post-2004.

Conclusion

Tsunamis highlight the intersection of natural hazards and human settlements. Investing in resilient infrastructure and regional cooperation ensures both safety and sustainable development.