Author: Khurshida Katun
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/PP/020300005
Abstract: The Sundarbans of West Bengal had been recognized as one of the most flood-prone regions in India due to its unique geographical setting and ecological fragility. The area had frequently experienced tidal surges, embankment breaches, cyclonic storms, and heavy monsoonal rainfall, which had severely affected local communities. The present study had been undertaken to investigate the impact of flood hazards on livelihoods in the Sundarbans, particularly in the South 24 Parganas district. A structured questionnaire survey had been administered among 200 respondents across Gosaba, Basanti, and Sagar blocks. Data had been analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and post hoc tests to identify demographic variations in perception and impact. The findings revealed that heavy rainfall (87%), embankment breaches (74%), and tidal surges (63%) had been reported as the primary causes of flooding. Livelihood disruptions had been most severe for farmers and fishermen, with significant differences across age, occupation, and education groups (p < 0.05). The study concluded that sustainable embankment management, livelihood diversification, and community-based disaster preparedness programs were essential for resilience-building in the Sundarbans.
Keywords: Sundarbans, Flood Hazard, Livelihood, South 24 Parganas, Coastal Vulnerability, Disaster Risk Reduction, Embankment Breach.
Page No: 31-39