India Leads Global South in Slum Dwellers in Flood-Prone Areas, Study Reveals
A new study reveals that India has the largest number of slum dwellers—over 158 million—living in flood-prone areas, primarily concentrated in the Ganga river delta. Globally, 33% of informal settlements in the Global South (445 million people) are in flood-exposed regions. The study highlights that low-income households are often forced into floodplains due to cheaper land, despite the high risk. This disproportionate exposure is exacerbated by failing infrastructure and lack of drainage. The findings underscore the urgent need for human-centric risk management strategies, community collaboration, and skill improvement in sanitation and waste management to enhance resilience, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Key Points
- India has the highest number of slum dwellers (over 158 million) residing in flood-prone areas, mainly in the Ganga river delta.
- Globally, 33% of informal settlements in the Global South are exposed to floods.
- Low-income populations are often pushed into floodplains due to affordability and lack of other viable options.
- The study calls for human-centric risk management, community collaboration, and infrastructure improvements to enhance resilience.
- These findings are crucial for achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty, clean water, and climate action.
Exam Facts
- Over 158 million slum dwellers in India live in flood-prone areas.
- The study was published in Nature Cities in July.
- The UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have a 2030 deadline.
- Aysha Jennath, climate mobility researcher at the Indian Institute for Human Settlements, Bengaluru, was quoted.
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