Question 1168
Arrange following states according to Flood Prone Areas in descending order. (i) Haryana (ii) Bihar (iii) Andhra Pradesh (iv) Assam
Answer
(iv), (ii), (iii), (i)
Why?
The correct answer is: 2 - (iv), (ii), (iii), (i) Key Points Flood Prone Areas in India: Assam (iv): Assam is one of the most flood-prone states in India. It experiences severe floods almost annually due to its location in the Brahmaputra River basin. The Brahmaputra River, along with its tributaries, swells during monsoon season, leading to widespread inundation of agricultural fields and settlements. Factors contributing to flooding in Assam include heavy rainfall, deforestation, poor drainage, and riverbank erosion. Floods in Assam impact millions of people, destroy crops, and disrupt transportation and communication networks. Bihar (ii): Bihar is another state highly prone to floods, particularly in the northern regions bordering Nepal. Rivers such as the Kosi, Gandak, and Bagmati are major contributors to flooding in Bihar. The Kosi River, in particular, is notorious for changing its course, earning it the nickname "Sorrow of Bihar." Flooding occurs due to heavy rainfall in the Himalayan region, leading to excess water flowing downstream into Bihar. Floods in Bihar result in loss of life, displacement of people, destruction of crops, and damage to infrastructure. Andhra Pradesh (iii): Andhra Pradesh is prone to floods, particularly in regions near the Godavari and Krishna rivers. Heavy monsoon rainfall and cyclonic storms originating from the Bay of Bengal often cause rivers to overflow, leading to flooding in low-lying areas. In addition to riverine floods, coastal areas in Andhra Pradesh are susceptible to flooding due to storm surges caused by cyclones. Floods in Andhra Pradesh impact agriculture, fisheries, and infrastructure, causing significant economic losses. Haryana (i): Haryana is relatively less flood-prone compared to Assam, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh, but certain regions do face flooding during heavy rainfall seasons. The Yamuna River and its tributaries can overflow during intense monsoon rains, leading to localized flooding. Floods in Haryana primarily affect agricultural lands, causing damage to crops and livestock. The state has implemented measures such as the construction of embankments and drainage systems to mitigate flooding risks. Additional Information Flooding in India is primarily caused by monsoon rainfall, river overflow, poor drainage systems, and cyclonic storms. Approximately 12% of India's total land area is prone to flooding, affecting millions of people each year. The government and local authorities implement various flood mitigation measures, such as early warning systems, embankments, reservoirs, and floodplain zoning. Other flood-prone states in India include Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and Kerala. Floods have long-term impacts on agriculture, housing, health, and economic development, highlighting the importance of sustainable flood management practices.
