Bihar, a state located in eastern India, is characterized by diverse geographical features and climatic conditions, making it particularly vulnerable to both floods and droughts. These extreme weather events not only affect the agricultural economy but also have a profound impact on the socio-economic and environmental fabric of the state.
1. Geographical Overview
Bihar lies in the Indo-Gangetic plain and is traversed by numerous rivers, including the Ganga, Kosi, Gandak, and Bagmati. The states location and riverine system make it susceptible to flooding during the monsoon season. Conversely, the southern and southwestern parts of the state, which are relatively less endowed with water resources, are prone to droughts.
2. Flood-Prone Areas in Bihar
a) Major Causes of Flooding
Monsoon Rains: Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season leads to overflowing rivers.
River Dynamics: The meandering nature of rivers like Kosi, which is notorious for shifting its course, exacerbates the problem.
Sedimentation: Accumulation of silt in riverbeds reduces their carrying capacity.
Dam Breaches: Breaches in embankments and dams, such as those along the Kosi and Gandak, frequently lead to catastrophic floods.
b) Regions Affected by Floods
North Bihar Plains:
Districts: Sitamarhi, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Samastipur, Muzaffarpur, and Supaul.
Rivers: Bagmati, Kamla-Balan, Gandak, and Kosi.
Characteristics: Low-lying areas with poor drainage systems.
Kosi River Belt:
Districts: Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, and Araria.
Notable Incidents: The 2008 Kosi flood, often referred to as the "Sorrow of Bihar," displaced millions.
Ganga River Basin:
Districts: Bhagalpur, Patna, Buxar, and Vaishali.
Issues: Overflowing riverbanks and waterlogging.
Gandak River Basin:
Districts: West Champaran, East Champaran, and Gopalganj.
Concerns: Frequent breaches in embankments.
c) Impact of Floods
Loss of life and property.
Displacement of people and disruption of livelihoods.
Waterborne diseases and epidemics.
Damage to agriculture and infrastructure.
3. Drought-Prone Areas in Bihar
a) Major Causes of Droughts
Erratic Rainfall: Uneven distribution of monsoon rains in southern Bihar.
Deforestation: Reduction in forest cover impacts the local water cycle.
Groundwater Depletion: Excessive extraction for agriculture worsens the situation.
Climate Change: Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns contribute to frequent droughts.
b) Regions Affected by Droughts
South Bihar Plateau:
Districts: Gaya, Nawada, Aurangabad, and Jehanabad.
Characteristics: Rocky terrain with limited irrigation facilities.
Magadh Region:
Districts: Arwal, Rohtas, and Kaimur.
Issues: Dependence on rain-fed agriculture.
Southwestern Districts:
Districts: Buxar, Bhojpur, and Sasaram.
Features: High temperature and low rainfall.
c) Impact of Droughts
Reduced agricultural output, especially in rice and wheat.
Scarcity of drinking water.
Migration of laborers to other states.
Increased poverty and unemployment.
4. Government Initiatives and Mitigation Strategies
a) Flood Mitigation
Construction of Embankments: Strengthening and maintaining river embankments.
Flood Forecasting: Setting up early warning systems.
Disaster Management: Establishing shelters and relief camps.
Interlinking of Rivers: Plans to link rivers to control water flow.
b) Drought Mitigation
Irrigation Projects: Expansion of canal networks and promotion of micro-irrigation techniques.
Rainwater Harvesting: Encouraging the storage of rainwater.
Afforestation: Increasing green cover to regulate the water cycle.
Crop Diversification: Promoting drought-resistant crops.
5. Community Efforts and Resilience
Local Participation: Involving communities in disaster preparedness.
Traditional Knowledge: Utilizing indigenous methods for water conservation.
NGO Collaboration: Partnering with organizations for relief and rehabilitation.
6. Future Challenges and Opportunities
a) Challenges
Increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events due to climate change.
Population pressure on land and water resources.
Inadequate infrastructure and funding for disaster management.
b) Opportunities
Leveraging technology for better flood and drought forecasting.
Implementing integrated water resource management.
Promoting sustainable agricultural practices.