Flooding in urban areas is an emerging climate-induced disaster. Discuss the causes of this disaster. Mention the features of two such major floods in the last two decades in India. Describe the policies and frameworks in India that aim at tackling such floods. (250 words)
Urban flooding is an escalating climate-induced disaster, driven by rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, and extreme rainfall events. In 2023, over 40% of Indian cities faced urban flooding, underlining its growing impact.
Causes of Urban Flooding:
- Unplanned Urbanization: Unchecked construction reduces natural drainage, as seen in Mumbai’s Mithi River.
- Inadequate Drainage Systems: Outdated systems fail during heavy rainfall, demonstrated by Chennai’s 2015 floods.
- Climate Change: Intensified monsoons and rising sea levels lead to extreme rainfall (e.g., Mumbai’s 375 mm in 2021).
- Loss of Wetlands: Encroachment reduces water absorption, evident with Bengaluru’s Bellandur Lake.
- Riverbank Encroachment: Unauthorized constructions obstruct river flow, causing floods, like Delhi’s Yamuna River flooding in 2023.
- Urban Heat Island Effect: Higher urban temperatures increase rainfall intensity, worsening floods.
- Poor Waste Management: Blocked drains due to plastic waste worsen flooding, as seen in Gurugram.
Major Urban Floods in the Last Two Decades:
- Mumbai Floods (2005):
- Rainfall: 944 mm in 24 hours, one of the heaviest recorded.
- Impact: Over 1,000 deaths, ₹5500 crores in losses, massive transport disruption.
- Chennai Floods (2015):
- Rainfall: 494 mm in 24 hours due to intense monsoon.
- Impact: 500+ deaths, ₹20,000 crores in losses, and extensive displacement.
Policies and Frameworks in India:
- National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) 2016: Focuses on flood risk mitigation and early warning systems.
- Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT): Develops urban drainage and increases green spaces.
- National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) 2008: Promotes climate-resilient urban planning.
- Smart Cities Mission: Encourages resilient infrastructure and drainage.
- Integrated Urban Flood Management Guidelines (2020): Ensures stormwater management and flood forecasting.
Conclusion: Addressing urban flooding requires sustainable urban planning, climate adaptation, and community involvement for effective management.
