The Joshimath land subsidence of 2022 is a tragic event that highlights the increasing frequency and devastating impact of landslides in the Himalayas. These landslides are a result of both endogenic and exogenic geomorphic processes, which play a significant role in shaping and altering the landscape of the region.


Endogenic geomorphic processes are geological activities that occur within the Earth's crust, primarily driven by internal forces. In the context of the Joshimath land subsidence, the following factors contribute to the occurrence and severity of landslides:

Tectonic Activity: The Himalayas are a geologically active region due to the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. This tectonic activity leads to the formation of steep slopes and fault lines, making the region highly susceptible to landslides.

Faulting and Folding: The intense tectonic forces in the Himalayas result in the formation of faults and folds in the rock layers. These structural weaknesses weaken the stability of the hillslopes and increase the likelihood of landslides.

Rock Type and Weathering: The composition and weathering of rocks play a significant role in slope stability. In the Himalayas, the presence of weak and highly weathered rocks, such as shale and schist, increases the susceptibility to landslides.


Exogenic geomorphic processes are external forces that shape the Earth's surface, primarily driven by weathering, erosion, and deposition. In the context of the Joshimath land subsidence, the following factors contribute to the occurrence and severity of landslides:

Weathering: Physical and chemical weathering processes weaken the stability of the rocks and slopes. Freeze-thaw cycles, intense rainfall, and temperature variations in the Himalayas contribute to the breakdown of rocks, making them more prone to landslides.

Erosion: The Himalayas are characterized by steep slopes and a high relief, resulting in rapid erosion of the landscape. Erosion removes the support for the slopes, leading to increased instability and the occurrence of landslides.

Glacial Activities: Glacial activities, such as glacial retreat and the formation of glacial lakes, have a significant impact on the stability of slopes. The melting of glaciers increases the water content in the soil and rocks, reducing their strength and triggering landslides.


In conclusion, both endogenic and exogenic geomorphic processes contribute to the occurrence and severity of landslides in the Himalayas, including the Joshimath land subsidence of 2022. Tectonic activity, faulting, folding, rock type, weathering, erosion, and glacial activities all play a crucial role in shaping the landscape and making it susceptible to landslides. It is important to understand and study these processes to mitigate the risks associated with landslides in the future.