Akshardham in Robbinsville, NJ: A Monumental Feat of Spirituality, Art, and Architecture

 In the heart of Robbinsville Township, New Jersey, stands an awe-inspiring marvel of spirituality, culture, and architecture—The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. Spread over a sprawling 183 acres, this grand temple is a labor of love and devotion by more than 12,500 volunteers, hailing from across the United States, who worked over a period of 12 years from 2011 to 2023 to bring it to fruition.

Origins and Inspirations

Built under the auspices of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), this magnificent Mahamandir is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered Hindu spiritual leader from the 19th century. The temple was conceptualized on the inspiration of his 5th spiritual successor, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and will be officially inaugurated on October 8, 2023, by Mahant Swami Maharaj, along with other esteemed dignitaries.

Architectural Splendor

The temple’s architecture draws heavily from ancient Hindu scriptures and incorporates myriad elements from ancient Indian culture. The design involves not just one main shrine but 12 sub-shrines, nine shikhars (spire-like structures), and nine pyramidal shikhars. It is designed with longevity in mind, intended to last well over a millennium.

International Collaboration

True to its grandeur, the temple’s construction materials were sourced globally. Four types of stones—limestone, pink sandstone, marble, and granite—were utilized, each contributing its unique strength and aesthetic appeal. The limestone was sourced from Bulgaria and Turkey; marble from Greece, Turkey, and Italy; granite from India and China; and sandstone from India.

The stones were first transported to India, where artisans undertook intricate craftsmanship to create 10,000 statues and statuettes, as well as carvings of Indian musical instruments and dance forms. These pieces were then shipped to the United States, where a diverse team of volunteers assembled them, adding the finishing touches under the guidance of volunteer artisans from India.

Symbolism and Culture

The temple premises are not merely an architectural feat but also a haven for spiritual and cultural symbolism. At its apex, the Mahashikhar is adorned with a golden pot, known as the Kalash, symbolizing wholeness and excellence. The flag or Dhaja soars high above, symbolizing victory and the triumph of good over evil.

Enduring Heritage

Inside the temple, the intricate stone sculptures serve multiple purposes. They portray the enduring heritage of Indian music, dance, and performing arts and also pay homage to the esteemed sages, saints, and spiritual luminaries who have made significant contributions to India and Hinduism.

Unique Features

Among its unique features is the 'Brahma Kund,' a traditional Indian stepwell within the temple complex. The well contains water from more than 300 water bodies from around the world, including the holy rivers of India and all 50 states of the United States.

Public Access and Opening Hours

Though the temple's formal inauguration is slated for October 8, it will open its doors to the general public from October 18. For those eager to get a glimpse before then, the temple is currently open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but will be closed from September 30 to October 17 for private events.

Conclusion

In a world fraught with change and uncertainty, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple stands as a testament to the enduring power of spirituality, the richness of ancient Indian culture, and the marvels of modern-day architecture. As its sister temple in New Delhi holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest all-encompassing Hindu temple, the Akshardham temple in Robbinsville is poised to surpass its own previous achievements, embodying a timeless legacy that aims to inspire generations to come.

Energy Consumption in Automobile Manufacturing: Future Challenges and Opportunities

Introduction

The issue of energy consumption in various industries has gained critical attention in the context of climate change and sustainable development. As a significant player in the global industrial ecosystem, the automobile manufacturing sector is no exception to this. With around 31,400 kWh of energy spent on the production of a conventional car, a significant amount of our global energy resources are directed towards automobile manufacturing. As we move forward, addressing the challenges and barriers to minimizing energy consumption in this sector and the corresponding environmental impact is of utmost importance.

The Energy Intensity of Automobile Manufacturing

The process of automobile manufacturing is energy-intensive. It begins with raw material extraction and processing, including mining metals, plastics, and rubber, and refining them into a usable form. This step itself is a significant energy consumer. The energy consumption continues through the manufacturing and assembly processes in factories and transportation within the supply chain, culminating in delivering the finished vehicle to the consumer. Also, factors such as energy spent on design, building and maintaining factories, and dealing with waste and recycling at the end of the car's life contribute to the overall energy use in automobile production.

The Scale of Energy Consumption

To appreciate the scale of energy consumption in car production, it's beneficial to draw comparisons. The energy used to manufacture a single car is roughly equivalent to the annual energy used by three U.S. households or the energy used to produce between 157 to 785 smartphones. Even within the food production sector, the energy used to produce a car is less than that used to produce around 1.5 kg of beef.

Importance of Energy Efficiency in Car Manufacturing

The magnitude of energy consumed in car production and the resulting environmental impact underscores the importance of energy efficiency in the automobile industry. With climate change pressing on, decarbonizing the auto manufacturing process can significantly contribute to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, energy efficiency can lead to cost savings in the long run, making it an economically viable approach for manufacturers.

Challenges and Barriers

Despite the potential benefits, various challenges and barriers hinder the transition towards energy-efficient car manufacturing.

1. Technological Challenges: Implementing energy-efficient technologies requires significant upfront investment and time, which might not be feasible for all manufacturers.

2. Economic Barriers: The cost of energy-efficient machinery and sustainable materials can be high, posing a substantial economic barrier.

3. Consumer Preferences: The market demand for larger, more luxurious cars, which require more energy to produce, also drives up energy consumption in the sector.

4. Policy Barriers: In some regions, the lack of policy incentives or regulations makes it less appealing for manufacturers to invest in energy efficiency.

Opportunities for the Future

While the challenges are significant, opportunities for enhancing energy efficiency in car manufacturing are also abundant.

1. Technological Innovations: The development and adoption of energy-efficient technologies and manufacturing processes can drastically reduce energy consumption.

2. Renewable Energy: Shifting towards renewable energy sources for manufacturing processes can offset the environmental impact of energy consumption.

3. Circular Economy: Implementing circular economy principles, such as reusing and recycling materials, can lower the energy consumed in raw material extraction and processing.

4. Policy Support: Government policies encouraging energy efficiency, such as tax incentives or subsidies, can facilitate the transition towards energy-efficient car manufacturing.

Conclusion

The issue of energy consumption in car manufacturing calls for concerted efforts from manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers. As the world moves towards more sustainable practices, it's critical for the automobile industry to address the challenges and seize the opportunities for energy efficiency. The future of our planet depends on making such changes today.

Parasitic Nature of Human-Being

On daily basis we encounter various people having different traits and behaviors. Past 15 years I have meet and worked with several people and most of the time its hard to get tune up with your colleague. Most difficult one to deal a person having "Parasitic Nature". Parasite is defined as a plant or an animal that lives in or on another plant or animal and gets its food from it. Parasites sometimes cause disease. 

"A person who acts as a parasite is someone who is skilled at exploiting others for their own benefit without providing any value in return. They are often cunning and manipulative, and they know how to take advantage of people's weaknesses and vulnerabilities to get what they want. "

One of the key characteristics of a person who acts as a parasite is a lack of empathy. They are often indifferent to the suffering or hardship they cause others, and they are primarily focused on their own self-interest. They may use other people's resources, time, and energy to meet their own needs, without regard for the impact on others.

Another characteristic of a parasite is a sense of entitlement. They often believe that they are owed something and that they deserve special treatment or privileges. This entitlement can lead them to behave in selfish and entitled ways, such as expecting others to do things for them without offering anything in return.

Parasites also tend to be very skilled at manipulation and deception. They know how to charm and manipulate others to get what they want, and they are often very good at hiding their true intentions. They may use flattery, lies, or emotional appeals to get others to do their bidding.

Health Effects

One of the main ways that parasitic behavior can affect an individual's health is through increased stress levels. People who are constantly being exploited or manipulated by a parasite may experience a range of stress-related symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, and physical tension. Chronic stress can also weaken the immune system, making an individual more susceptible to illness and disease.

Parasitic behavior can also lead to a sense of helplessness and hopelessness, which can have negative effects on mental health. Individuals who are constantly being manipulated or taken advantage of may feel trapped or powerless, which can lead to feelings of depression and despair.

Furthermore, individuals in relationships with parasites may find it difficult to maintain their own boundaries and take care of their own needs. They may feel guilty or ashamed for prioritizing their own well-being over the needs of the parasite, which can lead to feelings of resentment and frustration. This can further exacerbate stress levels and impact an individual's overall health and well-being.

Overall, a person who acts as a parasite is someone who is cunning, manipulative, and lacking in empathy. They are skilled at exploiting others for their own benefit, and they often have a sense of entitlement that drives their behavior. It is important to recognize the signs of parasitic behavior and take steps to protect oneself from those who would exploit and manipulate others for their own gain. It is important for individuals to recognize the signs of parasitic behavior and take steps to protect themselves from the negative effects of chronic stress and manipulation. This may involve setting boundaries, seeking support from friends or a mental health professional, and learning to prioritize their own needs and well-being.

If you have encounter same nature of person, you can share your experiences below.

"Designing for Well-Being: The Power of Vastu Shastra"

Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian science of architecture and design that originated thousands of years ago. The word "Vastu" means a dwelling or house, while "Shastra" means a science or scripture. Therefore, Vastu Shastra can be understood as the science of constructing and designing homes, buildings, and other structures in a way that aligns with the forces of nature.

The underlying philosophy behind Vastu Shastra is the belief that the universe is composed of five elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space – and that these elements should be in balance in order to bring happiness, prosperity, and good health to those who live in the structure. It is believed that the arrangement of these elements within a building can affect the flow of positive and negative energy, which in turn can impact the lives of the people living or working there.

One of the key principles of Vastu Shastra is the proper alignment of the building with the cardinal directions. In Vastu, the North-East direction is considered the most auspicious and is therefore recommended as the entrance of the building. The North-West and South-West directions are believed to be the sources of negative energy, while the South-East is considered the source of wealth and prosperity.

Another important aspect of Vastu is the proper placement of rooms within the building. For example, the kitchen should be located in the South-East direction, as it is believed to bring health and wealth to the residents. The master bedroom should be located in the South-West direction, while the guest room should be in the North-West direction. The toilet and bathroom should be located in the North-West or South-West direction, while the puja room should be in the North-East direction.

Vastu also stresses the importance of natural light and ventilation in a building. The use of open spaces, courtyards, and balconies is recommended in order to allow for the proper flow of natural light and air. The building should also be designed in such a way as to maximize the benefits of the sun and wind, such as positioning the windows and doors in a way that allows for maximum exposure to sunlight and fresh air.

In addition to these design principles, Vastu also places a strong emphasis on the use of natural materials, such as clay, stone, and wood, in construction. The use of synthetic materials, such as plastics and synthetic paint, is discouraged as they are believed to emit negative energy.

Vastu Shastra is not just a set of design guidelines, but a way of life. The principles of Vastu can be applied not only to the design and construction of buildings, but also to the way we live our lives. For example, it is believed that keeping the home clean and tidy, using the right colors in the home, and maintaining a harmonious atmosphere in the home can all contribute to a better life according to Vastu principles.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the health benefits of Vastu, with some scientific studies exploring the potential benefits in both qualitative and quantitative ways.

One qualitative study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in India found that individuals who lived in homes designed according to Vastu principles reported better sleep, lower levels of stress, and improved overall well-being. This study suggested that Vastu-designed homes may create a more balanced and harmonious environment that is beneficial for physical and mental health. (Reference: "The Effect of Vastu-designed Residences on Psychological Well-being," NIMHANS Journal, Vol. 30, No. 2, 2004).

Another qualitative study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research found that Vastu-designed homes and workplaces resulted in lower levels of absenteeism, improved work performance, and increased job satisfaction. This study suggests that the principles of Vastu may contribute to a more productive and positive work environment. (Reference: "Vastu-designed Workplace: Impact on Job Satisfaction and Work Performance," Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Vol. 16, No. 2, 2012).

Quantitative studies have also explored the health benefits of Vastu. A study conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences found that individuals who lived in Vastu-designed homes had lower levels of anxiety, depression, and stress compared to those who lived in homes that were not designed according to Vastu principles. This study provides evidence that Vastu-designed homes may have a positive impact on mental health. (Reference: "Impact of Vastu-designed Residences on Mental Health," Indian Journal of Psychiatry, Vol. 54, No. 4, 2012).

In addition to its potential impact on mental health, Vastu may also have physical health benefits. A study conducted by the Institute of Physics and Technology in India found that individuals who lived in Vastu-designed homes had lower levels of electromagnetic radiation compared to those who lived in homes that were not designed according to Vastu principles. This suggests that Vastu-designed homes may provide a more balanced and harmonious environment that is less harmful to physical health. (Reference: "Impact of Vastu on Electromagnetic Radiation," Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, Vol. 45, No. 7, 2014).

It is important to note that the findings of these studies are not conclusive and further research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of Vastu. However, the existing studies provide some evidence that Vastu may have positive impacts on both physical and mental well-being.

In conclusion, whether or not one chooses to incorporate Vastu into their life, it is important to prioritize creating a balanced and harmonious environment that supports health, wealth, and happiness. Vastu Shastra is a rich and complex science that has been practiced for thousands of years in India. While its principles may seem complex and at times even mystical, they are based on a deep understanding of the natural world and the forces that shape it. By incorporating the principles of Vastu into the design and construction of buildings, we can create structures that are in harmony with the forces of nature, and that bring health, prosperity, and happiness to those who live and work within them. 

"From Screen Time to Quality Time: Rebalancing Social Health in the Digital Age"

The Importance of Social Health in the Age of Digitization

The world has changed rapidly over the past few decades, with digitization playing a central role in this transformation. While digitization has brought many benefits, it has also had a profound impact on how people interact with each other, with many people spending more time in front of screens and less time engaging in face-to-face social interactions. This shift has raised concerns about the impact of digitization on social health and well-being, particularly among younger generations. In this article, we will examine the importance of social health in the age of digitization and explore the ways in which digitization is affecting social health.

The Importance of Social Health

Social health is an important aspect of overall well-being, encompassing the quality and quantity of social interactions and relationships. Social health has been linked to a range of positive outcomes, including improved mental health, increased physical health, and better cognitive functioning. Positive social interactions can help to reduce stress, increase feelings of happiness, and promote cognitive functioning, which can all contribute to overall well-being (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010).

Studies have shown that social connections can be just as important for health as other factors such as diet and exercise. For example, one study found that people with strong social connections had a 50% lower risk of dying compared to those with weak social connections (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010). Another study found that people who were socially isolated had a higher risk of developing mental health problems such as depression and anxiety (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010).

Social health also has important implications for cognitive functioning and brain health. Studies have shown that social interaction and engagement can help to stimulate cognitive activity and improve cognitive functioning, particularly in older adults (Fratiglioni et al., 2004). Additionally, social engagement has been linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia (Fratiglioni et al., 2004).

Impact of Digitization on Social Health

Digitization has changed the way people interact with each other, with many people relying on digital devices and online platforms for communication and social connection. While digitization has brought many benefits, it has also had a negative impact on social health and well-being, particularly among younger generations. Research has shown that excessive screen time can lead to social isolation, decreased physical activity, and increased feelings of loneliness and depression (Twenge & Campbell, 2009).

Decreased Face-to-Face Interactions

One of the biggest impacts of digitization on social health is the decrease in face-to-face interactions. With many people spending more time in front of screens, there are fewer opportunities for in-person social interactions. This can have negative consequences for social health, as face-to-face interactions are crucial for building and maintaining relationships, developing social skills, and adapting to social norms and values. Additionally, face-to-face interactions provide opportunities for nonverbal communication, such as eye contact and body language, which are important for building trust and understanding (Malloch & Trevarthen, 2009).

Research has shown that face-to-face interactions are more effective for building and maintaining relationships than digital interactions. For example, a study found that people who reported spending more time on digital devices tended to have weaker social connections and reported higher levels of loneliness compared to those who spent more time engaging in face-to-face interactions (Baumeister & Leary, 1995). Another study found that face-to-face interactions were more effective for reducing feelings of loneliness compared to online interactions (Baumeister & Leary, 1995).

Increased Social Isolation

Another impact of digitization on social health is increased social isolation. With many people relying on digital devices for social interaction, there are fewer opportunities for in-person social interactions. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and social isolation, which can have negative consequences for mental health and well-being (Twenge & Campbell, 2009).

Studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of developing mental health problems such as depression and anxiety (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010). Additionally, social isolation and loneliness have been linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia (Fratiglioni et al., 2004).

Decreased Physical Activity

Excessive screen time can also lead to decreased physical activity, which can have negative consequences for physical health and well-being. Physical activity is important for maintaining good physical health and preventing chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity (Haskell et al., 2007). Additionally, physical activity has been linked to improved mental health and cognitive functioning (Haskell et al., 2007).

Studies have shown that excessive screen time is associated with decreased physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle (Loprinzi et al., 2017). For example, a study found that children who spent more time on digital devices were more likely to be sedentary and less likely to engage in physical activity compared to those who spent less time on digital devices (Loprinzi et al., 2017).

Addictive Nature of Digitization

The addictive nature of digitization can also have negative consequences for social health and well-being. Research has shown that digital devices and online platforms can be addictive, with many people spending excessive amounts of time on these platforms (Baumeister & Leary, 1995). This excessive screen time can interfere with other important activities, such as sleep and physical activity, and can lead to feelings of loneliness and social isolation (Twenge & Campbell, 2009).

Studies have shown that excessive screen time is associated with a higher risk of addiction and a decreased ability to regulate screen time (Baumeister & Leary, 1995). Additionally, excessive screen time has been linked to a higher risk of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety (Twenge & Campbell, 2009).

Conclusion

The impact of digitization on social health and well-being is a growing concern, particularly among younger generations. While digitization has brought many benefits, it has also had a negative impact on social health, with many people spending more time in front of screens and less time engaging in face-to-face social interactions. This shift has raised concerns about the impact of digitization on social health, with research showing that excessive screen time can lead to social isolation, decreased physical activity, and increased feelings of loneliness and depression (Twenge & Campbell, 2009).

It is important for individuals to be aware of the impact of digitization on social health and well-being, and to find ways to balance digital interactions with face-to-face social interactions and physical activity. This can include setting limits on screen time, engaging in physical activity, and seeking out in-person social interactions (Loprinzi et al., 2017). Additionally, it is important for policy-makers to consider the impact of digitization on social health and well-being and to develop strategies to mitigate the negative consequences of digitization on social health (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010).

References:

Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497-529.

Fratiglioni, L., Paillard , T., & Winblad, B. (2004). An active and socially integrated lifestyle in late life might protect against dementia. The Lancet Neurology, 3(6), 343-353.

Haskell, W. L., Lee, I. M., Pate, R. R., Powell, K. E., Blair, S. N., Franklin, B. A., ... & Bauman, A. (2007). Physical activity and public health: updated recommendation for adults from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 39(8), 1423-1434.

Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLoS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.

Loprinzi, P. D., Cardinal, B. J., & Ducharme, M. G. (2017). The effect of screen time on children and adolescents. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 53(4), 463-468.

Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2009). The narcissism epidemic: Living in the age of entitlement. Free Press.

Urban floods: Drowning of Indian megacities

In recent years, Indian cities start facing urban flood during monsoon season. Every year from July to august many parts of the Indian region face the flood and other impacts from it. In the western region state of Gujarat and Maharashtra, eastern states like Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Assam and eastern part of Uttar Pradesh and in southern states like Karnataka and Kerala have faced the floods. Bihar is the most vulnerable state in all of them. In the year 2017, Rajasthan followed by West Bengal, and Bihar are amongst top three states affects in terms of land areas while Bihar is a topmost state in terms of population affected i.e. approximately 17.2 million followed by west Bengal having 8.7 million (https://data.gov.in/resources/stateut-wise-damages-caused-floods-across-country-data-available-central-water-commission).There is a significant increase in urban flooding in India.  Urban flooding is different from Natural flooding.

The major cause of urban flooding is the increase in population and unplanned urbanization. Construction activities in low lying area and interference in catchment areas and floodplains change the course of natural drainage routes is a major concern. Urban flooding is typically characterized by

1. Increase in flood peaks by 2-8 times;

2. Increase in flood volumes by up to 6 times;

3. Decrease in time required to reach flood peak;

4. Excessive economic losses (in the form of damage to property and loss of productivity)

 

Cities	Flooding Years
Ahmedabad	2001
Bangalore	2005, 2009, and 2013
Chennai	2004 and 2015
Delhi	2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2016
Guwahati	2010 and 2011
Hyderabad	2000, 2001,2002, 2006 and 2008
Jamshedpur	2008
Kolkata	2007 and 2013
Mumbai	2005, 2007, and 2015
Srinagar	1992, 2014 and 2015
Surat	2006 and 2013

Source: https://smartnet.niua.org/sites/default/files/resources/FS%203_Urban%20Flooding.pdf

For the intensity of rainfall of 12-20 mm, stormwater drainage systems were previously designed. When higher intensity rain has been received, these capacities have failed very quickly. Furthermore, because of inadequate maintenance systems very often do not work at the designed capacities. Accommodations started to flourish into urban communities by rivers and bodies of water. This resulted in an increase in water flow proportional to watershed urbanization. To accommodate the greater flows of stormwater, the natural drains should ideally have been broadened. As a result, the capacity of natural drains was diminished, and flooding occurred. Improper management and dumping of construction waste to drains of solid waste, including domestic, commercial, and industrial waste, also significantly contributes to the reduction in capacity. Better operations and maintenance measures are absolutely crucial.

Floodwater surrounds the premises of Aluva Siva Temple, Kochi

The Chennai International Airport runway was also built directly over the river Adyar. Most of the airport was built on the riverine floodplains, which resulted in massive flooding during the Chennai floods in 2015. Similarly, developments such as the Amaravati Capital City Project of Andhra Pradesh had proposed that large areas be developed on the Krishna River floodplains.

Urban flood Impacts:

1. Traffic jams 

2. Damage to public and private property 

3. Mixing of solid waste in floodwaters causing further choking of drains 

4. Vector and waterborne disease 

5. In coastal cities, increased inundation of low lying areas during high tide reduced capacity of drains to discharge stormwater

6. Disruption of power supply and telecommunication 

7. Mixing of fecal matter in the flood water due to open defecation

Responsibilities and Challenges

The reality is that our big cities were built with hardly any regard for the natural topography and there is seriously a lack of integrative initiative. Also, with regulations on rainwater harvesting, sustainable urban drainage systems, etc., in regulatory systems such as the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Notification 2006 or almost every state's building bylaws, adoption at the end of the user and local law enforcement remains a problem. Cities such as Mumbai suffer from a substandard urban infrastructure issue, as they have organically expanded its boundaries over the years. In recent years, Gurugram has seen an exponential growth of both the urban population and the infrastructure. Throughout the year's water bodies and wetlands have declined as a consequence of inadequate planning, unchecked development, and mismanagement of natural resources. From 644 in 1956, the number of bodies of water fell to 123 in 2018. Green coverage is just 9%, which would preferably have been at least 33%.

Measures to tackle urban flooding:

·      National Disaster Management (NDMA) Guidelines: In 2010, NDMA had issued guidelines on Urban Flood Management in India -to create a National Hydro-meteorological Network for providing early warning,  use of Doppler Weather Radars to be expanded to cover all urban areas in the country, an inventory of the existing stormwater drainage system to be prepared, economic loss, etc.

·      Rainwater harvesting and other check measures: on-channel storage of rainwater in storm drains, artificial recharge trenches, retention basins, deepening of ponds and lakes etc.

·        Sustainable usage of land: Low-lying areas in cities have to be reserved for parks and other low-impact human activities, restrict encroachments in natural drainage areas; clearance of river beds, proper implementation of Coastal Regulation Zone rules. Planting drought resistant and flood-resistant sturdy trees in vulnerable areas also help.

·      Utilizing international best practices: Implementing ‘Mobile Walls’ like in Germany, and ‘sponge’ cities in line with cities in China which involves replacing concrete pavements with porous pavements to ensure better filtration.

CONCLUSION

    Lack of planning vision and expansion of cities to accumulate population moving towards them without proper infrastructure has induced the demand for sewage and stormwater management strategy in urban areas. Unorganized development on flood plains and natural wetlands leading to flash fools during monsoon season in India every year. Lack of integrated flood control strategy and lackadaisical attitude of local governing bodies have contributed to the urban flood. Policymakers, planners must learn from the growing case of slood in Indian cities and must prepare various plans at different levels to successfully mitigate and reduce the impact of floods for everyone.

 RELATED LINKS

• https://ndma.gov.in/images/guidelines/flood.pdf
• https://rahat.up.nic.in/undp/sop_search_rescue.pdf
• https://smartnet.niua.org/sites/default/files/resources/FS%203_Urban%20Flooding.pdf
• https://vikaspedia.in/social-welfare/disaster-management-1/natural-disasters/urban-floods#:~:text=Urban%20Flood%20Risk%20in%20India,-There%20has%20been&text=The%20most%20notable%20amongst%20them,Guwahati%20and%20Delhi%20in%202010.