| Introduction: Give a brief description related to floods. Body: What role does climate change play in increasing the frequency and intensity of floods? Conclusion: Way forward |
According to the World Health Organization, “Floods are increasing in frequency and intensity, and the frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation is expected to continue to increase due to climate change.” Devastating effects of floods were witnessed in Pakistan, Uttarakhand, Kashmir Valley, Chennai, Gujarat & in several districts of Himachal Pradesh this year. As per the Geological Survey of India, over 40 million hectares, which is nearly 12% of the total land area of India, are prone to floods.
What role does climate change play in increasing the frequency and intensity of floods?
- Melting of glaciers: The Himalayan region, which feeds numerous important rivers in India, is witnessing rapid glacial melting as a result of rising temperatures. Rivers may expand and flood downstream areas when there is too much meltwater and a lot of monsoon rain.
- Rising sea level: As a result of global warming and rising sea levels, coastal areas may experience coastal flooding in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal due to seawater intrusion during storms and high tides.
- Change in rainfall pattern: With greater variability and intense occurrences, climate change affects rainfall patterns. The monsoon season in India is getting more unpredictable and has increasingly frequent, heavy downpours. Flooding may occur as a result of sudden, intense downpours that overwhelm drainage systems.
- Urbanization & deforestation: Deforestation and urbanization are accelerated by climate change, which worsens flooding. Deforestation lowers the capacity of trees and other natural vegetation, which are essential for absorbing surplus rainfall. As impermeable surfaces are built as a result of urbanization, natural drainage is reduced and the risk of localized flooding is increased.
Why there is a need for a coherent framework for flood risk management?
- Early warning system: Effective flood risk management requires accurate data and early warning systems. An integrated framework can establish mechanisms for data sharing and the development of advanced early warning systems to predict and respond to floods promptly.
- Climate Adaptation: The framework should incorporate climate change adaptation strategies, such as resilient infrastructure, floodplain zoning, and reforestation, to mitigate the impact of climate change on flooding.
- Resource Allocation: It can help in the efficient allocation of resources for flood risk management, ensuring that funds are directed toward high-priority projects that address vulnerabilities.
- Better coordination: Flood risk management involves multiple stakeholders at the central, state, and local levels. A coherent framework can facilitate better coordination and collaboration among these entities, ensuring a more effective response during floods.
Conclusion:
Finally, there is a need to focus on floodplain restoration and water retention of water bodies as they are considered to be pillars against flooding. But all this would require strong political will and refrain from populist policies to save lives and livelihoods and safeguard infrastructure.
