Answer:

Introduction:

Assam, a picturesque state in northeastern India, faces a grim recurring event every year – severe flooding. Over the past few years, the intensity of these floods has increased, with last year being the worst in a decade, affecting over 8.8 million people and resulting in 181 fatalities. The arrival of the pre-monsoon season marks the beginning of this annual ordeal. The pressing nature of this issue calls for a thorough understanding of its reasons and decisive long-term action to mitigate and manage the fallout effectively.

Body:

Causes of Recurring Floods in Assam

• Geographical Factors: Assam serves as a catchment area for the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers, whose high volume of monsoon runoff, coupled with the region’s low-lying topography, triggers regular floods.
• Rainfall: Assam’s proximity to the Bay of Bengal and its monsoon path results in substantial rainfall. As per IMD data, Assam has received 48.2 mm rainfall in the current pre-monsoon period, 34% higher than the average.
• Deforestation: Rampant deforestation in catchment areas has led to increased soil erosion, which deposits silt in the rivers and reduces their water-holding capacity, aggravating the flood situation.
• Seismic Activity: Assam is a high-seismic activity region. Frequent earthquakes alter river courses, making the region susceptible to floods.
• Human Activities: Encroachment on wetlands, water bodies, and improper agricultural practices amplify the flood risk.

Long-Term Measures for Flood Management and Mitigation in Assam

• Enhanced Flood Forecasting and Early Warning Systems: Leveraging technology for real-time flood prediction and alerts can aid in timely evacuations and preparations.
• Improved Flood-Control Infrastructure: Construction of embankments, reservoirs, and dredging riverbeds could control river flow and capacity, significantly reducing the flood threat.
• Afforestation and Watershed Management: A green approach involving afforestation and watershed management can mitigate soil erosion and enhance the land’s water-absorption capacity.
• Flood-Resistant Urban Planning: Developing flood-resilient urban settlements can reduce the damage caused by recurrent floods.
• Relocation and Rehabilitation Programs: Moving vulnerable populations to safer areas, combined with comprehensive rehabilitation initiatives, is critical for reducing flood-induced human loss.
• Community-Based Disaster Management Training: Enhancing community preparedness through disaster management training can ensure a more effective response to flood scenarios.
• Transboundary River Management: Collaborative management of shared rivers with countries like China and Bangladesh can be instrumental in regional flood management.

Conclusion:

While the challenge of managing floods in Assam is monumental, it is not insurmountable. A holistic, multi-pronged approach, encompassing improved forecasting, infrastructure enhancements, environment conservation, and international cooperation, is paramount for mitigating these annual calamities. The central assistance of over Rs 520 crore approved by the HLC under the NDRF is a step in this direction. As stakeholders, the government, civil society, and local communities must join hands to ensure a resilient and secure future for Assam.

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