IMPACT OF TAWA DAM RELEASE IN NARMADAPURAM

Abstract

This research examines the hydrological impact and vulnerability associated with the discharge of water from the Tawa dam, on Narmadapuram, which is situated on the Narmada river, in Madhya Pradesh. In recent years, the city has experienced increasingly frequent and severe floods, particularly during the monsoon season, and an attempt has been made to study natural phenomena such as rainfall and topography, along with anthropogenetic forces such as urbanization and land use changes that contribute to the same. The study is based on analysis of rainfall patterns, data of discharge from the dam, land-use patterns of the city, drainage patterns, and site characteristics. In terms of climatic regime, rainfall over the region is highly seasonal, with most rainfall occurring within a few months, leading to high surface runoff. At the same time, during high rainfall events, the dam water is discharged downstream, causing a sudden increase in river flow. The system thus exhibits rapid response with little time for mitigation and control. The topography of the study site also influences flood patterns. Being fairly flat, water can spread easily over large areas; although the presence of a large flood plain ideally contributes to water absorption, the increased encroachment and settlement in the flood plains reduce the available absorptive capacity. Built-up areas increase infiltration capacity and thereby promote higher runoff over the otherwise contributing pervious areas. The study takes into account the impacts on infrastructure and settlement. Residential areas, utilities, roads, etc. Are established in the low-lying flood-prone areas. The prevailing poor drainage system increases waterlogging over a longer period of time. Finally, it may be concluded that the flood situation is not merely a natural phenomenon but rather is closely connected with planning and development practices.