Question

Discuss the flood problem in the Ganga basin.

Answer 1

The flood problem in the Ganga Basin is caused by a combination of natural and human-induced factors:

1. Heavy Monsoon Rains: The Ganga Basin receives intense rainfall during the monsoon, leading to rivers overflowing and flooding low-lying areas.
2. Siltation: The Ganga and its tributaries carry large amounts of silt from the Himalayas, which raises the riverbed and reduces the river's capacity to handle floodwaters.
3. Deforestation: Loss of forests in the upper basin increases runoff, contributing to faster and more intense flooding downstream.
4. Urbanisation: Cities encroach on floodplains, reducing the area available for water to spread and causing urban flooding.
5. Inadequate Flood Management: Existing flood control measures, such as embankments, are often poorly maintained or ineffective in managing the volume of water.
6. Climate Change: Increasing rainfall and glacial melt in the Himalayas are intensifying the flood risk.