Government Boosts Flood Management Initiatives Across States
The Union Government is enhancing flood management efforts nationwide by providing technical support and financial assistance to state governments. This initiative is part of the centrally sponsored program, “Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)” aimed at bolstering flood control and anti-erosion works in critical areas throughout India.
In a recent written response to the Rajya Sabha, the Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, detailed the government’s commitment to flood management through this comprehensive program. During the past five years, the program has facilitated the receipt and approval of numerous proposals from various states and Union Territories, aimed at tackling flood risks and protecting vulnerable areas.
Assessing Flood Impact
According to the Central Water Commission’s report titled “Assessment of Area Affected Due to Floods in India (2024),” satellite imagery data from 1986 to 2022 reveals that approximately 21.213 million hectares in India have been affected by floods. In response, the government has successfully implemented flood management strategies that have safeguarded around 20.538 million hectares.
Stakeholders can access state-wise and district-wise flood impact details through an official online platform, enhancing transparency and public awareness of flood-affected regions in the country.
Funding and Infrastructure Works
Under the FMBAP, significant funding has been allocated for flood protection projects, including the maintenance of works in the Kosi and Gandak projects in Nepal. The program also supports flood protection and anti-erosion initiatives along India’s borders with Bangladesh and Nepal.
The scope of these projects encompasses the construction of embankments, sluices, retaining walls, drainage channels, and other essential infrastructure such as bank revetment and groynes. These efforts aim to enhance the resilience of communities living in flood-prone areas.
Data compiled from states shows a total of 50 projects received proposals under the FMBAP from 2021 to 2026, with 24 projects getting approval. The total central assistance allocated for these initiatives has reached over 2,813 crores INR, reflecting the Union Government’s priority in combating flood-related challenges.
The commitment from the Union Government, coupled with the active participation of state governments, underscores a collective effort to mitigate the risks of flooding and to protect communities from potential disasters.
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