APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 06/05/2026

Model answer

Model Answer

Introduction

Urban flooding has emerged as a recurring crisis in many Indian cities. In Guwahati, floods are no longer solely caused by heavy rainfall but are increasingly linked to wetland encroachment, drainage failure, unplanned urbanisation, and weak governance systems.

Why Guwahati is Flood-Prone

A. Geographical Factors

• Located between:
  • Brahmaputra River
  • Meghalaya hills
• Receives:
  • Heavy monsoon rainfall
  • Hill runoff

Ecological Causes of Urban Flooding

A. Wetland Encroachment

• Wetlands previously acted as:
  • Natural water retention systems
• Urban expansion reduced absorption capacity

B. Loss of Natural Drainage Channels

• Bharalu and other streams heavily degraded
• Reduced carrying capacity due to:
  • Siltation
  • Pollution

C. Surface Concretisation

• Roads and buildings reduce groundwater infiltration
• Increased surface runoff

Governance Failures

A. Unplanned Urbanisation

• Construction in low-lying areas
• Weak enforcement of zoning regulations

B. Poor Waste Management

• Garbage blocks drains and channels

C. Fragmented Institutional Structure

• Multiple agencies with poor coordination

D. Reactive Rather than Preventive Approach

• Temporary flood response instead of long-term planning

Climate Change Dimension

• Extreme rainfall events becoming more frequent
• Climate change intensifies urban vulnerability

Impacts**

Way Forward

1. Wetland Restoration

• Protect and revive urban wetlands

2. Scientific Urban Planning

• Flood-sensitive land-use planning

3. Drainage Modernisation

• Desiltation and improved stormwater systems

4. Integrated Urban Governance

• Better coordination among agencies

5. Nature-Based Solutions

• Green spaces and permeable surfaces

6. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

• Long-term adaptation planning

Conclusion

The Guwahati flood crisis demonstrates how ecological destruction and governance deficits can transform natural rainfall into recurring urban disasters. Sustainable solutions require an integrated, ecologically sensitive, and climate-resilient urban governance framework.