Mitigation of Flash Floods in Kokrajhar of the State of Assam in North East India

Abstract

Assam, one of the northeastern state of India witnesses heavy rainfall almost every year because of its geographical location. Kokrajhar, a district of Assam witnesses flash floods at certain parts of it during rainy season. Detailed study of the reasons for occurrence of flash floods have made and presented in this paper. Incorrect estimation of maximum flood or providing undersized storm water drains are the major reasons for occurrence of flash floods. Improper construction and maintenance of storm water drains are also the reasons for flash flood occurrence. Kokrajhar, being the headquarter of Bodoland Territorial Region is coming up with large number of infrastructural development projects. However, due to flood situations, these construction projects are halted for a considerable time resulting in slower rate of completion of these projects. The present case study aims at understanding the reasons behind occurrence of flash floods at central part of Kokrajhar town and finding the appropriate preventive and remedial measures to prevent such floods. These measures will thus helps in avoiding difficulties caused to the general public during rainy season and also helps in the faster rate of development of the region.