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. (UPSC 2024, 15 Marks, )

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Thinkers’ views on Urban Floods

•   Shubhagato Dasgupta: Urban floods as a result of poor urban planning and infrastructure. He calls for integrated urban planning, improved infrastructure, and sustainable water management practices to mitigate urban floods.

•   Jeroen Aerts: Urban floods as a consequence of climate change and inadequate risk management. He advocates for a combination of structural measures (e.g., flood barriers) and non-structural measures (e.g., early warning systems) to reduce urban flood risks.

Causes of Urban Flooding

• Climate Change
• Increased frequency of high-intensity rainfall due to global warming.
• Rising sea levels causing storm surges in coastal cities.
• Unplanned Urbanization
• Encroachment on natural drainage systems, wetlands, and water bodies.
• Over-concretization reducing soil absorption capacity.
• Deforestation: Loss of green cover leading to reduced water absorption and increased surface runoff.
• Inadequate Infrastructure
• Outdated or poorly maintained stormwater drains.
• Inadequate sewage systems contributing to waterlogging.
• Improper Waste Management: Blocked drains due to plastic waste and solid debris.
• Topographical Challenges: Low-lying cities prone to water accumulation during rains.

Features of Two Major Urban Floods in India

A. Mumbai Floods (2005)

• Rainfall: Over 944 mm of rainfall in a single day (26th July 2005).
• Impact: Severe waterlogging, disruption of transportation, and loss of over 1,000 lives.
• Causes: High tide coinciding with intense rainfall, blocked drains, and unplanned urban expansion.

B. Chennai Floods (2015)

• Rainfall: Heavy rains exceeding 494 mm in a day (December 1, 2015).
• Impact: Extensive flooding, displacement of millions, and economic losses of over ₹20,000 crore.
• Causes: Encroachment on water bodies, poor drainage, and unregulated urban growth.

Policies and Frameworks in India to Tackle Urban Floods

• National Disaster Management Act, 2005
• Framework for disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response.
• Established the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
• Urban Flooding Guidelines (NDMA, 2010)
• Focus on integrated urban flood management.
• Provisions for strengthening drainage infrastructure and early warning systems.
• Smart Cities Mission
• Promotes resilient infrastructure with modern drainage and waste management systems.
• Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
• Focuses on urban infrastructure development, including better drainage and water management.
• Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030)
• Aligns with international goals to reduce disaster risks through resilience-building.
• State-Level Initiatives
• Kerala Flood Management Program and Maharashtra Urban Drainage Improvement Project.
• Interlinking of Rivers
• Aims to manage excess water during floods and mitigate droughts through inter-basin water transfer.

Urban flooding is a multifaceted issue driven by both natural and human-induced factors. Addressing this challenge requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving urban planning, enhancing drainage infrastructure, and adopting sustainable practices to mitigate the impacts of climate change. By understanding and addressing the root causes, cities can better prepare for and manage the risks associated with urban flooding.