Floods in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna Delta

This book provides a comprehensive treatment of flood issues in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna Delta region, covering flash floods, fluvial floods, fluvio-tidal floods, and coastal floods, and outlining flood management strategies to maintain ecological integrity and environmental stability. It is intended for students and researchers in earth and environmental sciences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 557 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive volume delves into the devastating floods that have plagued the major rivers of the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna (GBM) Delta and the storm surge-related coastal floods in these regions. With a dedication to addressing floods from an integrated physical-social perspective, the book aims to provide students and researchers with a holistic understanding of floods, encompassing both human and geomorphological aspects. By systematically covering all the major rivers and coastal areas in the GBM delta and surrounding regions, the book fosters a clear comprehension of this densely populated reservoir, where thousands of people are annually impacted by flood hazards and agricultural destabilization.

The comprehensive treatment of flood issues in the region encompasses flash floods, fluvial floods, fluvio-tidal floods, and coastal floods, while outlining effective flood management strategies to preserve ecological integrity and environmental stability. Moreover, the book serves as a valuable resource for students and researchers in earth and environmental sciences, particularly geomorphology, hydrology, geography, geology, natural resources management, and regional planning.

The GBM Delta is a vast and complex region characterized by its unique geological features, including the world's largest delta, the Sundarbans, and the Brahmaputra River. The region is home to over 100 million people, making it one of the world's most densely populated areas. The floods in the GBM Delta are caused by a combination of factors, including heavy rainfall, river discharge, and storm surges.

The floods in the GBM Delta have significant impacts on the region's economy, infrastructure, and human lives. They cause widespread destruction of property, loss of livelihoods, and displacement of populations. The floods also have environmental consequences, including soil erosion, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.

To address the challenges posed by floods in the GBM Delta, there is a need for a comprehensive and integrated approach. This includes improving flood forecasting and warning systems, implementing effective flood management strategies, and promoting sustainable land use practices.

One of the key challenges in flood management in the GBM Delta is the lack of adequate infrastructure. Many areas in the region lack proper drainage systems, which can lead to flooding during heavy rainfall. Additionally, the region's roads and bridges are often damaged by floods, making it difficult for emergency services to reach affected areas.

To address this challenge, there is a need for investment in infrastructure development. This includes building new drainage systems, improving existing ones, and constructing resilient roads and bridges. Additionally, there is a need for improved communication and coordination between government agencies, local communities, and disaster management organizations to ensure effective response to floods.

Another challenge in flood management in the GBM Delta is the impact of climate change. Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe floods in the region. This is due to changes in rainfall patterns, sea level rise, and the frequency of extreme weather events.

To address this challenge, there is a need for adaptation measures. This includes implementing climate change mitigation strategies, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and adapting to the changing climate by implementing sustainable land use practices and improving infrastructure.

In conclusion, floods in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna (GBM) Delta and the storm surge-related coastal floods in these regions are a significant threat to the region's economy, infrastructure, and human lives. The floods have significant impacts on the region's ecological integrity and environmental stability. To address these challenges, there is a need for a comprehensive and integrated approach that includes improving flood forecasting and warning systems, implementing effective flood management strategies, and promoting sustainable land use practices. Additionally, there is a need for investment in infrastructure development and adaptation measures to address the impact of climate change. By taking these steps, we can help to mitigate the devastating impacts of floods in the GBM Delta and ensure a more sustainable future for the region's population.

Weight: 1033g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031210853
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023