Major cities in India are increasingly vulnerable to flood conditions due to a combination of natural and human-induced factors:

1. Urbanization: Rapid urban expansion has led to the conversion of natural landscapes into impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt. This reduces the land’s ability to absorb rainwater, leading to higher runoff and greater flood risk. Additionally, the encroachment on floodplains and wetlands, which traditionally acted as natural buffers, exacerbates flooding.

2. Inadequate Drainage Systems: Many Indian cities have outdated or poorly maintained drainage infrastructure. The increased volume of runoff from urban areas often overwhelms these systems, causing waterlogging and flooding during heavy rains. Poorly planned drainage systems also result in the clogging of drains with debris and solid waste.

3. Climate Change: Changing weather patterns and more intense rainfall events, driven by climate change, contribute to increased flood frequency and severity. Extreme weather events, such as intense monsoon rains, are becoming more common, exacerbating urban flood risks.

4. Deforestation and Land Use Changes: Deforestation and changes in land use in the catchment areas of rivers and streams reduce the natural absorption capacity of the soil, leading to increased runoff and higher flood risks in urban areas downstream.

5. River Encroachments: Encroachments on riverbanks and floodplains restrict the natural flow of rivers, increasing the likelihood of floods. Encroachment often results from unregulated construction and illegal settlements.

In summary, the vulnerability of major Indian cities to flooding is a multifaceted issue involving rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, climate change, and land use practices. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive urban planning, improved drainage systems, and sustainable land management practices.