CAG report points out flaws in Kerala flood management plan (Flood Plain Zoning)
Recently the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has underlined that Kerala has not yet enacted a law on Flood Plain Zoning (FPZ).
A report was prepared by the CAG on the backdrop of the floods in Kerala in the year 2018. The report underlined the fact that even 45 years after the central government had circulated a Model Bill for Flood Plain Zoning (MBFPZ), the state has not enacted a law on FPZ.
The report highlights the serious gaps in planning, capacity building, flood forecasting, dam management, etc.
The purpose of FPZ is to demarcate the zone or areas affected by floods. At the same time, the types of possible development in these areas have to be mentioned to reduce the damage caused by floods.
Flooded plains are important for regulating the flow of water in a river.
FPZ Policies in India
- FPZ comes under the purview of the State Government, as it pertains to riparian land and the land is a subject in the State List.
- MBFPZ makes provisions regarding survey of flood plains, notifying the extent of flood plains, prohibition or restriction on use of flood plains etc.
- The National Disaster Management Guidelines for floods include regulation of floodplains and implementation of FPZs.
Source – The Hindu
