The monsoon in India is eagerly awaited for the relief it brings from the heat, the watering of fields for farmers to start sowing, the filling of water bodies, and the simple joy of watching or soaking in the downpour. However, in recent years, the monsoon has become a source of both blessing and misery, often leading to destruction and throwing life out of gear. The increasing density of population and our modern lifestyles have exacerbated these woes, with overflowing drains, waterlogged roads, and building collapses becoming commonplace.
But perhaps the most tragic aspect is the loss of lives during the monsoon season. Many individuals have tragically perished while trying to capture a perfect photograph or simply enjoying a picnic by a seemingly serene stream that suddenly transforms into a raging torrent. We often fail to recognize the inherent danger of seemingly dry water bodies that can rapidly overflow. We’ve all studied drainage systems in geography, but why are they called drainage systems? Every stream, every river has a defined area around it that it drains based on factors such as slope, rock type, and topography. Therefore, when it rains, the volume of water flowing into a stream or river can be enormous, quickly transforming a seemingly harmless stream into a destructive force.
In other instances, a seemingly idyllic river might actually be downstream from a dam. When there is excessive inflow, dam gates are opened to maintain water levels, and unsuspecting individuals can be caught in the path of rushing waters within a matter of moments. Tragically, tourists are often the victims of these sudden floods as they are typically unaware of the local water dynamics that locals understand well.
Today, tourism has taken on a new dimension fueled by beautifully edited videos on social media platforms. Technology allows people to easily travel to these locations without the need for traditional directions, simply relying on maps to guide them. I personally experienced such a precarious situation with classmates during a trip to Jog Falls in Karnataka, the second highest waterfall in India. This was around 15 years ago, when restrictions were less strict. The monsoon hadn’t yet arrived, and the water flow was minimal. We hiked to the top and crossed the plunge stream of one of the four waterfalls. It began to drizzle, and within minutes, the water level began to rise, making it difficult to cross the stream. Realizing the water level would continue to rise rapidly, we managed to hold hands and cross to safety just in time. This experience taught us a valuable lesson: always research the water bodies you intend to enter and consult with locals.
Never blindly take risks that could endanger yourself and others without understanding the local environment. There are always safe and enjoyable ways to experience rain, a stream, or any natural setting. It’s foolish to risk your life for a photograph or social media fame. Nature is undeniably beautiful, but it also possesses immense power that can often surpass our imagination. Respecting nature and acting responsibly within its boundaries is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
