During the 173rd foundation day celebration of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), experts discussed the issue of urban floods, which they say are caused by poor urban planning. They emphasised the need to ensure that natural watercourses on a particular landscape are not encroached upon before any construction takes place. This basic rule is often overlooked, which leads to problems during rainy season and high floods as water cannot flow through its natural paths.
GSI, which started its voyage to investigate and assess coal and other mineral resources on March 4, 1851, is a leading organisation in mineral exploration, seismic studies, polar studies, landslides, natural calamities, and environmental studies.
Urban floods have become a new phenomenon in many parts of India, causing inundated roads and other damages. Experts say that poor urban planning is one of the main causes of this problem and needs to be given due attention. They suggest that before any construction, it should be ensured that natural watercourses on the particular landscape are not encroached upon. This will allow water to flow through its natural paths during rainy seasons or high floods.
The Chennai urban flood in 2015 is cited as an example of the seriousness of this man-made problem. Earlier settlements in India were wise enough to settle in higher grounds and not encroach upon natural watercourses.
