Landslides: How, Why and the Way Forward

Abstract

Slopes sometimes slide and cause damage and disruptions for the public. Landslides can be triggered by a combination of natural factors such as  intense and prolong rainfall, soil properties and steep gradient slope. Human activities  such as deforestation, improper construction practices and inadequate drainage systems can also contribute to landslide occurrences. Landslide mitigation is crucial to reduce the loss of lives, protect infrastructures, and ensure public safety. Given that landslides occur more frequently during intense and prolong rainfall, it's important to have effective strategies in place to minimize their impacts. This paper aims to provide insights into the causes of landslides, their impacts, and effective strategies for mitigation. Examples of successful landslide mitigation and management initiatives are included. The comprehensive approach, which involves education, research, planning, and collaboration, has the potential to significantly mitigate landslides. The way forward is to establish a centralized slope agency to lead and assist local authorities is an important strategic move. This agency as an One Stop Centre (OSC) could provide expertise, guidance, and control for slope-related projects, ensuring that proper standards are met. The Centre also provides risk assessment of existing slopes, mitigation measures and carries out research and development on improving slope engineering. Collaboration between government agencies, academic institutions, industry professionals, and local communities is key to the success of landslide mitigation efforts.