Preliminary Analysis of Flood Disaster 2017 in Bihar and Mitigation Measures

Abstract

Flooding is a regular disaster in Indian state of Bihar causing major human lives and economic losses. High vulnerability of Bihar towards floods is usually on account of its geo-climatic conditions and other contributing factors. The paper aims to conduct a preliminary analysis of the flood disaster 2017 in Bihar and to suggest sustainable mitigation measures. Satellite imageries based analytical maps from different sources are included showing the spatial rainfall analysis, flooding extent changes, crop damages etc. The paper discusses briefly the previous studies about embankments and floods. Mitigation measures suggested include policy, institutional, innovative physical and community participation measures. Recommendations mention that the transboundary nature of the catchment areas requires enhancing coordination not only between line departments but also on international scale.