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Kuldeep Singh,
- PhD Scholar, Department of Architecture and Planning, Guru Ramdas School of Planning, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
Abstract
Rapid and unplanned urbanisation replacing the natural flood absorbing formations has caused socio-economic disruption and vulnerability. Urban flooding has become a major problem in India’s National Capital Region. Unchecked urban growth in the lowlands exacerbates flooding and inadequate drainage systems are unable to
cope with the rising rainfall. We need to move from a focus on disaster response to managing floods and building flood resilience. Land use planning is an important tool in flood risk management which through zoning and development controls takes into account varying risks at the local level but often obstructed by governance structures focused on short term economic gains as opposed to long term ecological resilience. There are also major deficiencies in integrating flood risk assessments and conserving ecologically sensitive areas under the National Disaster Management Act and existing Master Plans. Urban flood resilience is still limited by disordered government management, weak enforcement of regulations, and bypassing of green infrastructure. Neoliberal governance allows inter-capital competition to dominate over profit, long term environmental commons and flooding risks. More strict building regulations in floodplains, especially no construction zone as well as green zones along rivers and predictive flood hazard maps are needed. Institutions for coordination and mainstreaming disaster preparedness and plans in development need to be strengthened. Local political participation increases disaster resilience. Policies for sustainable drainage systems, separation of sewage from storm water and restoration of urban water bodies should be in place. Reforms in regulation are essential if flood resilience is to be achieved, these range from enforcing existing legislation to ecologically sensitive urban planning Overall, the flood resilience of the National Capital Region is being undermined by poor policy integration, weak implementation, a lack of focus on green infrastructure, and neoliberal influences. A comprehensive approach is required to embed flood resilience into all urban development, based on robust regulation and empowered local governance.
Keywords: Urban Flooding; Disaster Management; Land Use Planning; Climate Resilience; Urban Governance;
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| Volume | 04 | |
| 02 | ||
| Received | 12/08/2026 | |
| Accepted | 21/08/2026 | |
| Published | 30/08/2026 | |
| Publication Time | 18 Days |