Understanding Citizens’ Perception and Experience of Flash Flood: Challenges of Guwahati Smart City Initiative, Assam
摘要
Floods are one of the most significant natural disasters affecting many regions around the world, particularly in Asia. These hazards are not only common but also highly destructive, often leading to loss of life and significant damage to property. Flooding typically occurs as a result of heavy rainfall and various other natural factors. The Northeastern region of India experiences the highest levels of rainfall due to its subtropical climate, making it particularly vulnerable to flooding. Guwahati, a city in Northeast India, is one of the areas frequently affected by floods during the monsoon season. Each year, it experiences flash floods after heavy rainfalls, leading to blocked roads and significant difficulties for residents, including schoolchildren, when trying to go to work, school, or college. As the water level rises on the city streets, it often covers pedestrian pathways and the road median strips. This situation leads to numerous accidents, resulting in loss of life and damage to public property, and it has considerable economic and social implications for the community. This research aims to examine the impacts of flooding, risk management strategies, public participation, and awareness initiatives that can help control flood situations in urban areas of Guwahati. The findings and recommendations will be compiled into a comprehensive conclusion. The study pays special attention to the experiences of different stakeholders and city residents (users), focusing on the challenges and issues they face during such disasters. The research utilizes both primary and secondary data from various sources, including field studies, to highlight the diverse experiences of city users and the consequences of flooding in the area.