The recent floods in Assam, triggered by the landfall of Cyclone Remal, led to significant casualties and widespread damage, affecting several districts and displacing thousands of people.
Factors behind frequent floods in Assam floods:
- Monsoon Rainfall: About 85% of the annual rainfall in the Brahmaputra basin occurs during the monsoon months, contributing to floods.
- High Discharge: Over 50 tributaries feed the Brahmaputra and Barak Rivers, resulting in high discharge and annual flooding.
- Bank Erosion: A high rate of bank erosion, due to the rapid discharge and velocity of the Brahmaputra River, leads to course shifting and flooding.
- Seismic Active Zone: Earthquakes and landslides in this zone push sediments and debris into the rivers, elevating riverbeds and increasing flood risks.
- Other Factors: Man-made issues such as deforestation, hill cutting, encroachments, and destruction of wetlands have exacerbated the flood situation.
Ref: Source
| UPSC IAS Preparation Resources | |
| Current Affairs Analysis | Topperspedia |
| GS Shots | Simply Explained |
| Daily Flash Cards | Daily Quiz |