The flooding in Indian cities during monsoon is an annual phenomenon, yet authorities fail to fix it
We have a love-hate relationship with the monsoon season. Every year, it is one of the most eagerly awaited phenomena as it gives respite from the scorching summer and infuses life into the fields. But when it arrives, all hell breaks loose; streets flood, daily life is disrupted, traffic jams occur, and there are unfortunate incidents of loss of lives and property. It's a recurring event that civic authorities fervently wish did not happen. This year, the cities of Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Gurugram have been particularly hard-hit, highlighting ongoing infrastructural challenges and the perennial struggle to manage monsoon impacts.Mumbai, India’s financial capital, has a long history of flooding during the monsoon season. The city often finds itself paralysed by waterlogged streets, disrupted transport systems, and submerged homes. This year is no exception. Despite significant investments in infrastructure, including the Brihanmumbai Stormwater Disposal System (BRIMSTOWAD), the city continues to grapple with flooding. The system, designed to handle a high volume of rainwater, often falls short due to various issues such as clogged drains, unplanned urbanization, and inadequate maintenance.
Once known for its pleasant climate and lush greenery, Bengaluru, the Indian Silicon Valley, has seen an alarming increase in flooding incidents over recent years. This monsoon season also it is facing waterlogging and traffic snarls. Key tech hubs and residential areas have been submerged, affecting daily life and business operations. With four of its lakes overflowing, there are chances of more misery visiting the city as two days of heavy downpour are predicted by the IMD. Bengaluru's flooding woes can be attributed to a combination of factors, including rapid urbanization, encroachment on lakes and stormwater drains, and insufficient waste management. Gurugram, a major satellite city of Delhi, has not been spared either. Gurugram often resembles a vast lake during the monsoon. Interestingly, Gurugram is much younger than Mumbai or Bengaluru but faces the same problem of waterlogging and drainage. Indeed, its woes could be attributed to poor town planning and a lack of concern among the authorities who seem to have made it a habit to ignore the issue. The persistent flooding in Indian cities during the monsoon season raises critical questions about urban planning and governance. Despite recurring floods, why do these problems remain unresolved? Fixing monsoon flooding is no rocket science. We have the means and resources to fix it. Existing drainage systems in many cities are outdated and incapable of handling the volume of rainfall experienced during the monsoon. They could be revamped or built afresh. Fragmented governance and lack of coordination between various municipal agencies hinder effective water management. Policies and plans are often implemented in a piecemeal manner, without addressing the root causes of flooding. But then what we learn from the past is that we don’t learn anything from it!
