A Geo-Spatial Approach for Evaluating and Mitigating Flood Vulnerability in Biraul Sub-Division of Darbhanga District, Bihar

This study assesses the flood vulnerability in the Biraul Sub-division of Darbhanga District, Bihar, using a GIS-based approach. The primary objective is to analyze the exposure, susceptibility and resilience at a micro-level to inform targeted flood mitigation strategies. The methodology integrates primary and secondary data, employing Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) for spatial interpolation and an overall Flood Vulnerability Index (FVI) derived from 67 socio-economic, infrastructural, and environmental indicators. Findings indicate significant disparities in flood vulnerability among villages. Raghunathpur, Laxminiya and Bagharas villages are identified as the most vulnerable due to their proximity to the Kamala-Balan River, inadequate infrastructure and poor preparedness. On the other hand, villages Kalyan Dih, and Ber demonstrate lower vulnerability due to better resilience factors. The policy implications emphasize the need for dual approach-structural measures like embankment reinforcement and drainage improvements alongside non-structural strategies such as community training, gender-inclusive disaster preparedness and financial literacy programs. The study contributes to existing knowledge by advancing a detailed village-level flood vulnerability assessment and advocating for community-driven resilience strategies. These findings can guide policymakers and disaster management authorities in formulating proactive flood mitigation policies to safeguard vulnerable populations and infrastructure in Bihar and beyond.