Question 4340
The most flood prone state of India is -
Answer
Bihar
Why?
The correct answer is 'Bihar.' Key Points Flood-Prone Nature of Bihar: Bihar is the most flood-prone state in India, with approximately 76% of the population living under the threat of annual floods. The northern regions of Bihar, particularly areas along the Kosi, Gandak, Burhi Gandak, and Bagmati rivers, experience frequent and severe flooding. The geography of Bihar, with its location near the foothills of the Himalayas, makes it susceptible to rivers overflowing from excessive rainfall in both the state and neighboring regions in Nepal. The Kosi River, often called the "Sorrow of Bihar," is notorious for changing its course and causing extensive damage during the monsoon season. Floods in Bihar result in significant economic and infrastructural damage each year, impacting agriculture, transportation, and housing. Additional Information West Bengal: West Bengal experiences flooding, especially in the lower regions near the Sundarbans delta and due to the Ganges and its tributaries. However, the overall impact and frequency of floods in West Bengal are generally lower than in Bihar, though some districts remain vulnerable during heavy monsoon seasons. Orissa (Odisha): Odisha also experiences severe flooding, particularly due to cyclonic rains, rivers such as the Mahanadi, and low-lying coastal plains. While Odisha is flood-prone, it is more susceptible to cyclones, and the flood frequency and impact are relatively less widespread compared to Bihar. Assam: Assam faces annual floods, especially in the Brahmaputra Valley, where the Brahmaputra River often overflows, affecting numerous districts. Despite its vulnerability to floods, the total affected area and population are somewhat less extensive than in Bihar, although Assam’s flood-related challenges are also severe. Important Points In Bihar, around 68,800 square kilometers of area is flood-prone, covering approximately 73% of the state’s total geographical area. Annual flooding in Bihar is aggravated by rivers originating in the Himalayas, bringing high volumes of water and sediment, leading to riverbed elevation and overflow. Floods in Bihar are a recurring problem, with infrastructural and community-based measures being crucial to managing the impact on the state’s dense population and agricultural economy.
