Slow Disaster: Political Ecology of Hazards and Everyday Life in the Brahmaputra Valley, Assam

The book explores the challenges faced by communities living in Majuli, India, one of the largest river islands in the world, as it has experienced immense socio-environmental transformations. It examines the processes of flooding and riverbank erosion, including the re-configuration of the islands geographies, loss of local livelihoods, and large-scale displacement of the population. It also focuses on livelihoods as a way of offering economic context to living in challenging environmental conditions and examines the interactions between the state and non-state actors and the everyday functioning of the bureaucracy in a hazardscape.

Format: Hardback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 09 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate and fascinating ethnographic account of the challenges faced by communities residing in Majuli, India, one of the world's largest river islands. Over the years, Majuli has undergone immense socio-environmental transformations, serving as a poignant symbol of the broader Brahmaputra Valley. Written in an engaging and insightful style, the author's insider perspectives shine through, providing a deep understanding of the processes at play.

The book explores the intricate dynamics of flooding and riverbank erosion in Majuli, examining their impact on the island's geographies, local livelihoods, and population displacement. It begins by examining the physical geography of Majuli and its ecological complexities, shedding light on the role of the state in water governance and hazard management. Additionally, it delves into the widespread resistance exhibited by the rural communities on the island, highlighting their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

The book centers its attention on livelihoods as a means of providing economic context to the inhabitants of Majuli, who navigate challenging environmental conditions. It examines the intricate interactions between the state and a diverse range of non-state actors, as well as the arbitrary functioning of bureaucracy in a Hazardscape. By examining the livelihoods of the people, the book offers valuable insights into the complexities of living in a hazardous environment and the strategies employed by communities to adapt and survive.

This volume serves as an invaluable resource for scholars and researchers interested in a wide range of disciplines. It provides valuable insights into political ecology of hazards and vulnerability, water and hydraulic infrastructure, rural livelihoods and agrarian questions, state theorizations, island studies, resistance and social movements, and northeast India more broadly. The book's comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis make it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of this unique and fascinating region.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367509774