The report is based on a study carried out with the help of National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) and attempts to (1) assemble and analyse available information to describe and identify causes behind the flash floods, and (2) suggest measures to be adopted in Goa to minimise damage arising from similar episodes in future.
The study comprised of field surveys and analysis of available data, particularly data on precipitation. This work permitted the Committee to infer that the flash floods in Canacona were directly related to about 271 mm of rain that fell on 2 October 2009. The committee noted that though there were no records to suggest that flooding of this magnitude had occurred in Canacona taluka in recorded history, the elements that contributed to the event were not uncommon in Goa. This intense-rainfall event could be looked upon as a warning of the potential of such events to cause damage. Though such events cannot be prevented, the committee suggested that the state should focus on awareness and preparedness for minimising the impact of similar intense-rainfall events.
The committee made one general and four specific recommendations. The general recommendation was that well-known practices in forest management for preventing mudslides (afforestation of mountain slopes, for example) and in river management (such as de-silting of river beds) should receive emphasis and increased investment. These measures would be able to minimise damage from rainfall events of lesser intensity, but higher frequency that occur in Goa. The specific recommendations were as follows -
A brief introduction to these reports is prresented below -
These three reports are expected to assist in increasing awareness about the potential for similar floods in Goa and help improve our preparedness to face them.