Question

In the Brahmaputra river basin, floods are almost an annual feature. Give two reasons to explain why.

Answer 1

1. Heavy Rainfall: The region receives about 250 cm of rainfall during the monsoon season, causing the Brahmaputra and its tributaries to overflow and flood the surrounding areas.
2. Silt Deposition, Earthquakes, and Landslides: The river carries a heavy load of silt, which gets deposited in its bed, reducing its water-carrying capacity. Additionally, frequent earthquakes and landslides create temporary blockages (natural dams). When these break due to water pressure, they cause sudden and widespread flooding.