Roadmap for Answer Writing

Introduction

• Define Urban Flooding: Briefly explain what urban flooding is, emphasizing its status as a climate-induced disaster.
• Importance of the Topic: Mention the increasing vulnerability of urban areas due to climate change and rapid urbanization.

Causes of Urban Flooding

1. Increased Frequency of Extreme Rainfall:
   • Climate change leads to more intense and frequent rainfall.
   • Fact: Chennai experienced severe flooding in November 2021 due to heavy downpours (Source: IMD).
2. Inadequate Urban Planning and Drainage Systems:
   • Many cities lack the necessary infrastructure to handle sudden rainfall.
   • Example: Hyderabad’s insufficient drainage design has caused repeated flooding, especially during the 2020 monsoon (Source: Local Government Reports).
3. Encroachment on Natural Water Bodies:
   • Urban expansion reduces the capacity of lakes and rivers.
   • Fact: In Kolkata, construction on wetlands has made flooding conditions worse during monsoons (Source: Environmental Studies).
4. Impervious Surfaces:
   • Concrete and asphalt prevent water absorption, increasing runoff.
5. Outdated Infrastructure:
   • Many cities rely on old drainage systems that cannot cope with modern rainfall patterns.

Major Flood Events in India (Last Two Decades)

1. Mumbai Floods 2005:
   • Details: July 2005 saw 944 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, leading to widespread flooding and significant infrastructure disruption.
   • Impact: Loss of life and economic disruption highlighted drainage inadequacies (Source: Government of Maharashtra).
2. Kerala Floods 2018:
   • Details: August 2018 experienced catastrophic flooding due to heavy rainfall, displacing over a million people.
   • Impact: Extensive damage to homes and infrastructure emphasized vulnerability to climate-related disasters (Source: IMD).

Policies and Frameworks in India

1. National Water Mission:
   • Promotes integrated water resource management and conservation efforts.
2. Disaster Management Act, 2005:
   • Provides a legal framework for disaster preparedness and response.
   • Fact: States have developed disaster management plans under this act (Source: Ministry of Home Affairs).
3. JnNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission):
   • Focuses on improving urban infrastructure, including flood management systems.
4. National Disaster Management Plan, 2016:
   • Outlines strategies for managing disasters, emphasizing risk reduction and preparedness.
5. Central Water Commission Guidelines:
   • Offers best practices for urban flood management to state and local authorities (Source: Central Water Commission).

Conclusion

• Summarize Key Points: Reiterate the causes, significant flood events, and policies in place.
• Call for Action: Emphasize the need for sustainable practices and proactive measures to mitigate urban flooding.

Relevant Facts for Use

• IMD Data: Chennai’s November 2021 floods.
• Local Government Reports: Hyderabad’s 2020 monsoon flooding.
• Environmental Studies: Encroachments in Kolkata.
• Government of Maharashtra: 2005 Mumbai floods data.
• Ministry of Home Affairs: Disaster Management Act impact.
• Central Water Commission: Guidelines for urban flood management.

This roadmap provides a structured approach to answering the question, ensuring clarity, coherence, and relevance.