Recent floods during the 2025 monsoon in Hyderabad caused severe disruption. Localised flooding marooned residents, damaged infrastructure, and cut power supplies for days. This event puts stress on shifting rainfall patterns and urban vulnerabilities in Telangana’s capital.
Changing Rainfall Patterns in Hyderabad
Hyderabad’s average monsoon rainfall has increased from 76.88 cm in the 20th century to 91.84 cm over the last 25 years. This rise exacerbates flooding risks. Scientists debate climate change’s role, but citizens face immediate consequences such as property loss and health hazards.
Impact on Vulnerable Communities
Poor populations near the Musi River and lake beds suffer most. Flooding destroys homes, possessions, and disrupts schooling. Areas like Moosa Nagar and Chaderghat face repeated water-borne diseases and economic hardship. Lack of insurance worsens their recovery.
Urban Planning Failures
Hyderabad’s flooding is partly due to ignoring natural topography and water flow. Encroachments on lakes and stormwater drains reduce drainage capacity. Corruption and weak zoning enforcement have dismantled natural flood defences, increasing vulnerability.
Government Initiatives and Challenges
The Telangana government formed the Hyderabad Disaster Management and Asset Protection Agency in 2024. It works on clearing encroachments and restoring water bodies like Bathukamma Kunta lake. However, decades of damage cannot be reversed quickly.
National Policy and Funding Landscape
Recently, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs stated urban resilience is mainly a State and local responsibility. The Centre’s Urban Challenge Fund (₹1 lakh crore) supports urban growth and sanitation projects but lacks dedicated climate emergency funding. This limits rapid disaster response and long-term adaptation.
Climate Resilience and Urban Growth
Hyderabad’s Musi Riverfront Development Plan aims to integrate climate resilience with urban renewal. It follows MoHUA’s 2021 River Centric Urban Planning Guidelines promoting eco-sensitive zoning and recreational spaces. Estimated at ₹1-1.5 lakh crore, the project faces funding hurdles without stronger central support.
Economic and Social Stakes
Indian cities host over a third of the population and drive informal sector jobs. Flooding and climate risks threaten this economic engine. Sustainable urban development requires urgent investment in climate adaptation and resilient infrastructure to prevent recurring crises.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of urban planning and governance in managing flood risks in Indian cities with suitable examples.
- Explain the impact of climate change on monsoon patterns in India and its implications for urban infrastructure development.
- What are the challenges in financing climate resilience projects in Indian cities? How can public-private partnerships enhance urban disaster management?
- Underline the significance of river-centric urban planning in sustainable city development. Comment on its potential benefits and limitations with examples.
