
doi: 10.56295/1aceg39
The Himalayan region, formed by the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, is among the most geologically active zones in the world. Infrastructure development across this mountainous terrain faces severe threats from geohazards such as landslides, earthquakes, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and Deep-Seated Gravitational Slope Deformations (DGSDs). These hazards, intensified by climate change and poorly planned construction, have resulted in repeated damage to roads, bridges, hydropower plants, and settlements. Events like the 2021 Melamchi flood and persistent ground deformation at Pakyong Airport in India exemplify the vulnerability of infrastructure to complex geomorphological and hydrometeorological processes. Many urban and rural areas across Nepal, India, and Bhutan are situated on DGSDs terrain without proper hazard assessment. This paper highlights the nature and impact of these geohazards, supported by recent case studies, and stresses the need for precise engineering geological investigations, hazard mapping, and risk- informed planning. Without incorporating geohazard science into infrastructure development, the Himalayan region remains exposed to growing disaster risks, leading to increased economic losses and compromised resilience. Strengthening geotechnical solutions, monitoring systems, and regional cooperation are essential steps toward safer infrastructure in this geologically young mountain environment.
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