Hindu Editorial Analysis : 31-July-2024
The tragic accident at an IAS coaching centre in New Delhi, where flooding led to the deaths of three IAS aspirants, highlights the urgent issue of urban flooding in India. This incident, largely a man-made disaster, reminds us that many such floods are avoidable. As cities grow, human actions often increase the risk of flooding, making it crucial to address this concern.
Urban Flooding in India: A Growing Concern
Urban flooding is becoming increasingly common in Indian cities, causing loss of life and significant property damage. While natural factors like heavy rainfall play a role, human actions contribute significantly to the problem.
Key Contributors to Urban Flooding:
- Expanding Cities: Urban areas are expanding into flood-prone regions. Since 1985, the number of settlements in these vulnerable areas has more than doubled.
- Risk for Informal Settlements: Residents in informal housing are particularly at risk during floods.
- Economic Impact: Floods lead to loss of lives and livelihoods, putting a strain on government resources. A report estimated that the economic loss from the 2023 floods in North India could be between Rs 10,000-15,000 crore.
Global Trends and India’s Position
According to a World Bank study, middle-income countries like India have more urban settlements in flood-prone areas than both low- and high-income countries. India ranks third globally in expanding settlements into these areas from 1985 to 2015, trailing only China and the U.S.
Comparison with Neighbouring Countries:
- Vulnerability: India is not among the top 20 countries at risk, but countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan face higher flood hazards.
- Urban Planning Issues: Unchecked urban growth in cities like Delhi has led to chronic flooding problems.
Factors Contributing to Vulnerability in Delhi
Recent heavy rains have shown Delhi’s vulnerability to flooding. Several factors exacerbate the situation:
- Basements with Limited Access: Many buildings have basements that become traps during floods due to poor ventilation and access.
- Mixed-Use Buildings: The repurposing of basements for income generation complicates safety regulations.
- Regulatory Challenges: Inconsistent building bylaws and a culture of bribery complicate compliance with safety measures.
Addressing the Issue: What Can Be Done?
To mitigate urban flooding, cities need to adopt comprehensive strategies.
Recommended Actions:
- Integrated Urban Planning: This should include zoning regulations and infrastructure development focused on flood resilience.
- Green Infrastructure: Implementing green spaces and permeable pavements can help absorb rainwater.
- Improved Drainage Systems: Regular maintenance of drainage systems is essential to prevent waterlogging.
- Early Warning Systems: Developing local early warning systems can save lives and reduce damage.
- Community Engagement: Involving communities in flood management fosters awareness and preparedness.
Flood-Resilient Building Designs
To minimize flooding risks, buildings should be designed to prevent water entry. This can include:
- Water Barriers: Using non-porous walls and flood barriers can help protect buildings.
- Stormwater Management: Proper maintenance and modeling of stormwater systems are vital for effective flood mitigation.
Policy and Preparedness
India needs robust flood management policies that align with the National Disaster Management Authority’s guidelines. Policymakers should prioritize flood risk reduction, invest in resilient infrastructure, and implement sustainable urbanization strategies. By addressing urban flooding effectively, we can protect lives and improve the resilience of our cities.
Why In News
The recent tragic accident at an IAS coaching centre in New Delhi, where flooding resulted in the deaths of three IAS aspirants, was a largely man-made and thus avoidable disaster. This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need for effective urban planning and infrastructure management. Such incidents are becoming increasingly common in localized urban flooding, where human failures significantly contribute to the risks.
MCQs about The Growing Challenge of Urban Flooding in India
- What was the primary cause of the tragic accident at the IAS coaching centre in New Delhi?
A. Natural disaster
B. Human negligence
C. Poor building design
D. Lack of rainfall
- Which of the following cities is mentioned as experiencing urban flooding due to unchecked expansion?
A. Chennai
B. Kolkata
C. Delhi
D. Hyderabad
- What economic impact did the 2023 floods in North India have, according to a report by the State Bank of India?
A. Rs 5,000 crore
B. Rs 10,000-15,000 crore
C. Rs 20,000 crore
D. No significant economic impact
- What is one recommended strategy for addressing urban flooding in Indian cities?
A. Reducing green spaces
B. Ignoring community input
C. Improving drainage systems
D. Allowing unrestricted urban expansion
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