Скачать или смотреть 10 factors responsible for floods in Bihar

The Topography of Bihar is marked by several perennial and non-perennial rivers, originating from the Mountains of Himalayas. These rivers carry high sediment loads that are deposited on the Bihar’s Plains. Also, Bihar is one of the climate-sensitive states in India. Bihar receives maximum rainfall during the southwest monsoon, lasting from June to September. Consequently, the onset of the monsoon in Bihar causes flood-like situations, especially on the northern plains of Bihar. Besides, climate change and global warming increase the frequency and intensity of both the floods and droughts in Bihar
The factors responsible for floods in Bihar include:
1. Large-scale deforestation: Deforestation in the upper catchment areas reduces the infiltration of rainwater, leading to increased surface runoff and higher flood magnitudes in Bihar.
2. Urbanization: The expansion of urban areas, including the construction of roads, buildings, pavements, and courtyards, limits the land's ability to absorb rainwater, contributing to floods.
3. Cementation: Increased urbanization results in widespread cementation, which further decreases the ground's water absorption capacity.
4. Poor drainage systems: Inefficient and inadequate drainage infrastructure worsens the flooding situation, especially in urban and low-lying areas.
5. Heavy rainfall: Extended periods of heavy rainfall significantly raise water levels in rivers and drainage systems, leading to floods.
6. Cloudbursts: Sudden and intense rainfall, known as cloudbursts, can overwhelm the local water channels and cause flash floods.
7. Riverbank erosion: The ongoing erosion of riverbanks increases the instability of the river systems, contributing to frequent and severe floods.
8. Shifting river channels: The dynamic nature of rivers, particularly in the flood-prone northern plains, where rivers change their course, exacerbates flooding risks.
9. Silt deposition: The accumulation of silt, sand, and clay in riverbeds and floodplains reduces the capacity of rivers to hold water, making them more prone to overflow.
10. Choked drains and nallas: Blocked or poorly maintained drains and nallas (small watercourses) hinder the efficient flow of water, leading to waterlogging and floods in urban areas.