Living in troubled waters: stakeholders’ perception, susceptibility and adaptations to flooding in the Upper Brahmaputra plain

Abstract

This work attempts to present the complex human–flood interactions from the chronically flood-affected district of Dhemaji in the Upper Brahmaputra floodplain. The objectives are to analyse perceptions, susceptibilities, indigenous knowledge and adaptations that enable coexistence of floods with floodplain dwellers. In addition, data on flood damage, breaches and cuts to embankments are collected from government departments and analysed. Results revealed a realistic perception of flood hazard amongst the floodplain dwellers. Susceptibility is higher due to the lack of infrastructure. Indigenous knowledge and adaptation strategies exist in the area enabling the floodplain dwellers to live with floods. The results also underscore the paradoxical situation where flood-control measures themselves have become detrimental to the floodplain dwellers. This creates a situation where environmental challenges outstrip the evolution of indigenous adaptation strategies. Our work is based in the Upper Brahmaputra River plains and is a contribution towards the long-standing debate on the choices humans make in response to riverine hazards.