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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 17/06/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (17-06-2025).

📝 Mains Question:

Q. “The recurring flash floods in Guwahati highlight the urban planning crisis in India’s rapidly growing cities.” Discuss the causes, consequences, and sustainable solutions for urban flooding with special reference to Guwahati.

📘 Model Answer

Introduction

Flash floods in urban areas like Guwahati, Assam’s largest city, have become a seasonal crisis. Even moderate rainfall now triggers massive waterlogging, traffic standstills, and infrastructure breakdown. These events expose the failure of urban systems to adapt to climate variability, unregulated expansion, and poor ecological governance. Guwahati represents a broader pattern seen across Indian cities, from Chennai to Mumbai.

Causes of Urban Flooding in Guwahati

Cause	Explanation
Wetland Encroachment	Over 60% of Guwahati’s wetlands and beels (e.g., Deepor Beel, Chatribari Beel) have been filled for real estate development.
Unregulated Urbanisation	Construction on hill slopes and floodplains without proper zoning or EIA.
Drainage Infrastructure Failure	Outdated or clogged stormwater drains, many laid in the 1970s, can’t handle runoff.
Loss of Natural Outlets	Disruption of natural rivulets (e.g., Bharalu River) and lake systems.
Solid Waste Blockages	Garbage dumping into drains reduces flow and leads to backflow during rains.
Climate Change	Increased frequency of intense rainfall events due to shifting monsoon patterns.

Consequences

A. Social and Economic Impact

Disruption of daily life: Schools shut down, ambulances blocked, offices closed
Financial losses: Property damage, shop closures, vehicle breakdowns
Health hazards: Waterborne diseases, breeding grounds for dengue, cholera

B. Ecological Impact

Loss of biodiversity in urban wetlands
Groundwater recharge capacity reduced
Urban Heat Island intensification due to loss of green buffers

Sustainable Solutions for Urban Flood Mitigation

Solution Area	Recommendation
Urban Planning	Integrate flood zoning into the Guwahati Master Plan; demarcate wetlands and water-retention areas
Eco-sensitive Development	Restore beels and hill ecosystems; ban further hill-cutting and encroachment
Drainage System Overhaul	Use geospatial mapping and hydraulic modeling to redesign stormwater flow networks
Permeable Infrastructure	Promote pervious pavements, green roofs, bioswales, rain gardens
Community Engagement	Mobilize RWAs for decentralized waste management and rainwater harvesting
Institutional Coordination	Empower Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) with clear authority and funds

Case Studies / Best Practices

Deepor Beel Buffer Proposal: Though currently stalled, the plan to create a conservation buffer could serve as a model
Indore’s Swachh Infrastructure: Combines solid waste control with drain clearance campaigns
Kochi’s Sponge City Initiative: Integrates natural water retention in new building codes

Conclusion

Guwahati’s annual waterlogging is not just a monsoon mishap—it is a governance failure rooted in flawed urbanisation. The city’s future depends on a shift from reactive flood response to proactive, climate-resilient infrastructure and land-use planning. Assam must balance growth with green logic to protect both its urban citizens and ecological foundations.prevent short-term decisions from causing permanent damage.

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