Karnataka, a state in southwestern India, is known for its diverse geography, ranging from the lush Western Ghats to the arid plains of the Deccan Plateau. This varied landscape makes the state vulnerable to both floods and droughts, which have become increasingly frequent and severe in recent years.
The Cycle of Extremes
Karnataka has historically experienced periods of both floods and droughts, but the frequency and intensity of these events have been on the rise. Over the past two decades, the state has witnessed 11 drought-affected years and four flood-affected years. This cyclical pattern of extreme weather events poses significant challenges to the state's economy, environment, and people.
Floods in Karnataka
The Western Ghats, which receive heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, are particularly prone to floods. Coastal districts like Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, and Udupi, as well as those bordering the Ghats like Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga, are highly vulnerable.
In recent years, Karnataka has experienced several devastating floods. In 2018, the state witnessed the highest number of landslides (7), followed by 2020 (6). Both 2019 and 2021 saw five landslides, while the 2022 monsoon saw four. These floods caused widespread damage to property, infrastructure, and crops, and resulted in loss of life.
Droughts in Karnataka
While the Western Ghats receive abundant rainfall, the eastern and northern parts of Karnataka are drought-prone. This is due to the rain-shadow effect of the Ghats and the semi-arid climate of the Deccan Plateau. Districts like Bagalkot, Bengaluru Rural, and Bengaluru Urban are particularly vulnerable to droughts.
Karnataka has experienced severe droughts in recent years, with the most recent one occurring in 2023. The state received its lowest rainfall in 123 years, resulting in a rainfall deficit of about 40 percent. This has had a devastating impact on agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods.
Causes of Floods and Droughts
Several factors contribute to the increasing frequency and intensity of floods and droughts in Karnataka:
Climate Change: Changes in rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events are all linked to climate change. These factors are exacerbating both floods and droughts in the state.
Deforestation: Deforestation in the Western Ghats reduces the region's ability to absorb rainfall, leading to increased runoff and floods. It also contributes to soil erosion and reduces water retention, making droughts more severe.
Urbanization: Rapid urbanization and unplanned development contribute to flooding by reducing the permeability of the land and disrupting natural drainage systems.
Water Management: Inefficient water management practices, including over-extraction of groundwater and inadequate irrigation infrastructure, contribute to water scarcity and drought conditions.
Impact of Floods and Droughts
The impact of floods and droughts on Karnataka is significant and multifaceted:
Economic Losses: Floods and droughts cause significant damage to crops, infrastructure, and property, resulting in substantial economic losses.
Loss of Life: Floods and landslides can lead to loss of life and displacement of people.
Water Scarcity: Droughts lead to water scarcity, affecting drinking water supply, agriculture, and industries.
Health Impacts: Floods can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases, while droughts can cause malnutrition and other health problems.
Environmental Degradation: Floods and droughts contribute to soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity.
Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
Karnataka is implementing various measures to mitigate the impact of floods and droughts:
Flood forecasting and warning systems: These systems help to provide timely alerts and enable people to evacuate to safer areas.
Watershed management: This involves conserving and restoring natural ecosystems to improve water retention and reduce runoff.
Drought-resistant crops: Promoting the cultivation of drought-resistant crops can help farmers cope with water scarcity.
Water conservation: Implementing water conservation measures, such as rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation techniques, can help to reduce water scarcity.
Climate-resilient infrastructure: Building climate-resilient infrastructure, such as flood-resistant housing and drought-resistant water supply systems, can help to reduce the impact of extreme weather events
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