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
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From The Assam Tribune, 17 June 2025
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
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| Drainage Infrastructure Failure | Outdated or clogged stormwater drains, many laid in the 1970s, can’t handle runoff.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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