Indian Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed his support for the use of satellite imagery provided by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to manage floods in the Northeast region. Shah proposed the creation of 50 large ponds in the Northeast to divert water from the Brahmaputra River for flood management, agriculture, and tourism purposes. He emphasized the importance of using ISRO satellite imagery for water management and preparing for the risks of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). Shah also called for the upgrading of the forecast system for water levels in rivers to improve flood management. The recurring flooding of the Brahmaputra River has been a major issue for Assam and the Northeastern region. Shah instructed relevant departments to conduct a detailed study of the recent floods in Sikkim and Manipur and submit a report to the Union Home Ministry [e706a15d].
This development highlights the Indian government's efforts to leverage technology and scientific data to address natural disasters and enhance disaster management capabilities. By utilizing satellite imagery provided by ISRO, authorities can gain valuable insights into the extent of flooding and make informed decisions regarding flood management strategies. The creation of large ponds to divert water from the Brahmaputra River demonstrates a proactive approach to mitigate the impact of floods and utilize excess water for beneficial purposes such as agriculture and tourism. Upgrading the forecast system for water levels in rivers will enable more accurate predictions and timely warnings, allowing for better preparedness and response to flood events. The study of recent floods in Sikkim and Manipur will provide valuable information for understanding the causes and impacts of the floods, facilitating the development of targeted measures to prevent future occurrences and minimize damage [e706a15d].