Title: Has flood control in Tamil Nadu, India been ahead of time? A historical review

Authors: Sudha Seshayyan; R. Maanasa; G. Srinivas

Addresses: Department of Epidemiology, The Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University, No. 69, Annasalai, Guindy, Chennai, 600032, Tamil Nadu, India ' Department of Epidemiology, The Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University, No. 69, Annasalai, Guindy, Chennai, 600032, Tamil Nadu, India ' Department of Epidemiology, The Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University, No. 69, Annasalai, Guindy, Chennai, 600032, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract: With seasonal rains contributing to the damage, natural disasters particularly floods, have often caused disastrous effects on civilisation and human settlements. Our ancestors recognised the need for effective management of the waterways and designed river-wide defensive systems and irrigation canals. Thanks to their advanced approach, several disasters had been averted in the past centuries. However, it is not surprising to note that the demands have outgrown and the defence mechanisms have become insufficient. In the context of early warning, newer scientific techniques have arisen to control flood damage and save human lives. While there is no doubt that flood control has progressed in its strategy over time, there is still some lacuna in surplus water management, which is an essential aspect in flood management, that needs to be considered by our authorities for effective outcomes.

Keywords: disaster mitigation; flood control; Tamil Nadu; water management; scientific techniques.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEM.2022.125163

International Journal of Emergency Management, 2022 Vol.17 No.3/4, pp.313 - 322

Received: 15 Feb 2021
Accepted: 02 Feb 2022
Published online: 31 Aug 2022 *

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