Central Idea

Punjab has been grappling with severe floods for over a month, predominantly affecting villages along rivers like Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, and Ghaggar.
These areas, known for their fertile flood plains, have been hit the hardest due to floods exacerbated by encroachments and construction.

Flood Plains and their Significance

Flood plains adjacent to rivers serve as natural defences against inland flooding. Maintained without concrete encroachments, they absorb excess water, safeguarding other regions.
Properly managed flood plains also aid in recharging groundwater levels and maintaining the water table.

Zoning of flood plains refers to the practice of categorizing and regulating different areas within flood-prone regions based on their vulnerability to flooding and the intensity of flood events.
This aims to manage land use and construction activities in these areas to minimize the risks associated with flooding, protect communities and infrastructure, and maintain the natural functions of flood plains.
It involves designating specific zones within flood-prone regions and establishing regulations and guidelines for development, construction, and land use in each zone.

National Green Tribunal (NGT): NGT guidelines state that construction should not occur within 500 meters of a river’s central lining.
Punjab’s Lag: Despite NGT’s directives and the need for floodplain zoning, Punjab has yet to initiate the process. Encroachments persist, putting riverside villages at perpetual risk.

Risk to People and Property: Unregulated construction leads to increased flood risks further inland, causing greater harm during floods.
Environmental Impact: Concretization of flood plains delays water drainage and affects soil fertility and quality.

Districts at Risk: Many districts including Ropar, Ludhiana, Ferozepur, Patiala, and more fall within flood plains, magnifying the need for preparedness.
Nationwide Challenge: While only four states have adopted flood plain zoning in principle, implementation has been insufficient. Even those that adopted zoning have not effectively delineated and demarcated flood plains.

Activists’ Concerns: Environmental activists and NGOs in Punjab have been advocating for flood plain zoning to mitigate risks.
Urgent Implementation: Immediate initiation and completion of flood plain zoning are crucial to safeguard lives, property, and ecosystems from devastating floods.

The recent floods in Punjab underline the urgency of flood plain zoning to avert catastrophe.
By adopting effective zoning measures, the state can shield its citizens and environment from the damaging impacts of unchecked construction and flooding.
It is imperative that Punjab takes swift action to implement flood plain zoning and thereby protect its vulnerable regions from the perpetual threat of floods.