Flood Management

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has extended support to mitigate flood risks associated with the Mullaperiyar and Idukki dams in Kerala by providing space-based inputs related to high-resolution terrain data for the researchers to engage in flood modelling and assess probable inundation by identifying potential flood risks.

Introduction to India's Vulnerability to Floods:

• India faces significant flood risks due to its geographic diversity, monsoon rains, and changing climate patterns.
• Over 40 million hectares of land are prone to flooding, affecting states like Assam, Bihar, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
• Causes: Factors like deforestation, rapid urbanization, and poor agricultural practices exacerbate flood severity in certain regions.
  • Poor town planning, unauthorized and illegal construction, and inadequate urban infrastructure expose Indian cities to flooding.
• Impact: Loss of human lives, displacement, destruction of crops, and damage to property and other physical infrastructures.
• Role of Satellite Technology: Satellites, operated by agencies like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), are pivotal in managing and mitigating flood disasters across India.

ISRO’s role in Disaster Management

 ISRO plays a crucial role in disaster management through its satellite-based applications. These tools aid in monitoring, predicting, and mitigating various natural disasters across India.

• Flood Management: ISRO provides real-time flood mapping and inundation maps to agencies like National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Relief Commissioners. This helps in timely evacuation and relief operations during floods.
• Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs): ISRO monitors glacial lakes using satellite data to assess potential risks of GLOFs. This helps in understanding and mitigating flood risks in the Himalayan region.
• Terrain Mapping: High-resolution terrain data from satellites assist in flood modelling and identifying vulnerable areas prone to inundation, such as around dams like Mullaperiyar and Idukki in Kerala.
• Information Dissemination: ISRO uses platforms like Bhuvan and National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM) to disseminate critical information to disaster management authorities. This includes flood maps, weather forecasts, and disaster impact assessments.
• Telemedicine and Tele-education: ISRO's satellites support telemedicine projects, connecting remote healthcare centers with urban hospitals for medical consultations. Similarly, tele-education initiatives like EDUSAT provide educational resources to rural areas.

Meteorological Services: ISRO satellites contribute to weather forecasting and monitoring through collaboration with the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This aids in predicting cyclones and other severe weather events.