Floods and Drought in Bihar: A Major Hindrance to Growth

Bihar, a state in northeastern India, faces recurrent challenges from floods and droughts. These natural disasters severely affect the state’s economic growth, agriculture, and overall prosperity. The state, being largely agrarian, is particularly vulnerable to these calamities. However, advancements in science and technology have played a pivotal role in improving disaster management, helping mitigate the effects of floods and droughts.

Causes of Floods and Droughts in Bihar

1. Floods:

• Monsoon Dependence: Bihar’s economy is heavily dependent on the monsoon for agriculture. A heavy downpour can easily lead to floods, especially in the northern part of the state.
• River Systems: Bihar is crisscrossed by rivers like the Ganga, Kosi, and Bagmati. The Kosi river, in particular, is prone to shifting its course, leading to severe floods.
• Deforestation and Poor Drainage: Encroachment on riverbanks and poor drainage systems aggravate the impact of floods.

2. Droughts:

• Uneven Rainfall Distribution: Bihar experiences uneven rainfall, where some parts receive excess rainfall, while others suffer from insufficient water, leading to droughts.
• Overexploitation of Groundwater: Overuse of groundwater for irrigation without proper replenishment has contributed to water scarcity in many areas.

Role of Science and Technology in Disaster Management

Science and technology have significantly improved how Bihar handles both floods and droughts. Through various applications of modern techniques, the state has been able to predict, manage, and mitigate the impacts of these disasters.

1. Flood Forecasting and Early Warning Systems

• Remote Sensing and Satellite Technology: The use of satellite imagery and remote sensing has enabled better monitoring of flood-prone areas. This technology helps in assessing the flow of rivers, the extent of rainfall, and soil moisture content. For example, Indian National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) utilizes satellites to track river levels and forecast potential flooding, giving authorities and farmers time to prepare.
• Real-Time Monitoring: The use of technology for real-time monitoring of water levels in rivers allows for quick action to prevent damage. For example, the Central Water Commission (CWC) uses automated flood forecasting systems that help in predicting flood-prone areas and issuing early warnings.

2. Improved Irrigation and Water Management

• Micro-Irrigation Techniques: Bihar has started adopting micro-irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler irrigation. These techniques ensure that water is used efficiently, especially in areas facing drought conditions.
• Water Conservation Initiatives: The government has also promoted the use of water-saving technologies, like rainwater harvesting systems, which can collect and store water for dry periods. This helps in reducing the impact of droughts.

3. Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure

• Flood Protection Infrastructure: The Bihar government has invested in flood protection infrastructure, such as embankments and floodwalls along major rivers. These infrastructures are designed with the help of scientific models that predict water flow and anticipate flood risks.
• Sustainable Agriculture Practices: To tackle drought, the state has encouraged the adoption of climate-resilient crops and sustainable farming practices. This includes using drought-resistant seed varieties, crop rotation techniques, and organic farming methods.

4. Data and Risk Assessment Models

• Geospatial Technologies: Tools like Geographic Information System (GIS) and Decision Support Systems (DSS) are now being used to create flood-risk maps. These maps help in identifying flood-prone regions and planning for their mitigation.
• Hydrological Models: These models are used to simulate the behavior of rivers and predict flood scenarios. They help in formulating policies to reduce flood risk.

Examples of Government Initiatives

1. Kosi Barrage Project

• The Kosi Barrage, a major flood control project, was constructed to regulate the flow of the Kosi river and prevent its shifting course. The project has been supported by scientific research on river management.

2. Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA)

• The BSDMA uses modern technology for disaster management, focusing on both floods and droughts. The authority monitors flood-prone areas and works on risk reduction, planning, and recovery strategies, utilizing the latest technology for better outcomes.

3. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)

• Under the PMKSY, the government has focused on increasing irrigation coverage, improving water-use efficiency, and implementing irrigation automation systems. These efforts help mitigate the effects of drought by ensuring that farmers have reliable access to water.