Technology News
Green infrastructure solutions have marginal impact in flood management in Ahmedabad: Study | Ahmedabad News

[ad_1]
Effective flood management in Ahmedabad requires more than green infrastructure, revealed a joint study by Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) and the University of Cambridge, UK.
The joint research, conducted by Angana Borah (a PhD student) and Prof Udit Bhatia from the Department of Civil Engineering at IITGN, and Prof Ronita Bardhan from the University of Cambridge to find data-backed scientific answers to the role of popular alternative flood adaptation measures, revealed that contrary to the current and widely adopted perception, benefits of uniform green infrastructure interventions for urban flood management are marginal.
Even at a 24 per cent application rate per sub-catchment area, green infrastructure interventions such as green roofs and permeable pavements do not exhibit a significant impact on peak flow that contrasts with earlier studies suggesting flood volume reductions up to 96 per cent, the findings show.
The study underscores the necessity for location-specific models or green infrastructure (GI) solutions and enhancing conventional urban drainage infrastructure to mitigate the risk of urban flooding during excessive downpours.
“The results underscore an essential point that the reduction in flooded areas does not directly result in a decrease in peak flood depth within the zones. This highlights the importance of considering variations in flood characteristics such as depth and extent, when evaluating the efficacy of flood management strategies,” the study states as shared by IITGN.
Explaining the significance of the work, Prof Udit Bhatia, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at IITGN, said, “With accelerating urbanisation, flood risks are becoming increasingly pervasive. This study highlights the necessity for location-specific models that critically evaluate the effectiveness of flood mitigation strategies such as green infrastructure. Universal solutions are ill-suited to address the unique challenges posed by rapid urban growth and climate change.”
The results reinforce the need to strengthen and expand our cities’ existing stormwater drainage systems to counter urban flood crises instead of relying on alternative pathways like green infrastructure, he added.
The research team chose the west zone administrative division of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), a rapidly growing metropolitan city with historical relevance and India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, to conduct the study.
Despite having stormwater drainage infrastructure coverage of 55 per cent, Ahmedabad has experienced severe flooding in the past few years owing to the monsoon rains. “Pragmatic urban greening solutions for climate action are critical in Indian heritage cities as they are cauldrons of traditions and culture that can disappear in the changing climate,” says Prof Bardhan.
Discussing the mainstream solution for this urban challenge, she adds, “As cities grapple with the increasing incidence of urban flooding, conventional drainage systems — once the backbone of urban flood management — are frequently overwhelmed. This inadequacy is compounded by two critical factors: the rapid and extensive urbanisation that modifies land topography and disrupts existing drainage patterns and the escalating pressures from climate variability and change. Together, these forces render traditional infrastructure insufficient. Hence, we need to strengthen the conventional urban drainage systems and augment them along with green infrastructure solutions to ensure improved resilience against flooding and further environmental changes.”
The team carried out comprehensive field surveys using a hydrodynamic model — a mathematical tool that explains the flow of water in any given system such as rivers, lakes or floodplains and cities using theories of conservation of mass and momentum — after major flood events in various areas in the west zone a day after the flood levels receded.
The study also integrated high-resolution remote sensing data from satellites to validate the model. This specific method of urban flood modelling, particularly concerning green infrastructure adaptation, is a novel and pioneering endeavour in the Indian context and can be used to analyse urban flood management interventions in any densely populated city.
Most Read
The study evaluated four types of green infrastructure — green roofs, permeable pavements, bioretention cells and vegetative swales — in Ahmedabad. Vegetative swales are engineered structures designed with multiple layers of soil for the purpose of growing vegetation while also aiding retention, infiltration, and evapotranspiration, essential for the reduction of flood peaks and flood extents.
After scrutiny, the researchers used several metrics to compare the advantage/efficacy of one green infrastructure with another regarding their ability for peak flow reduction and flood volume reduction.
“In the face of increased incidences of erratic weather and resultant flooding in rapidly urbanising cities, effective urban flood management strategies have become both a challenge and an urgent requirement. While many large cities around the world, including India, have employed alternative solutions like Green Infrastructure (GI) interventions, its effectiveness in mitigating urban flooding and water logging during torrential rains remains a puzzle,” the study highlights.
[ad_2]
Technology News
Circle to Search: Share part of your screen!

According to recent reports, Circle to Search, a feature introduced with the Samsung Galaxy S24 series in January 2024, might soon undergo an upgrade. Initially allowing users to copy text from selected areas, it’s now rumored to include the capability to capture and share screenshots of specific screen sections.
This enhanced functionality, observed in the latest version of Circle to Search, enables users to not only copy text but also capture and share screen images. A video shared by a tipster on X showcased this update, revealing new options of Copy and Share upon selecting an area. Even adjustments to the selected region don’t remove these options, ensuring a seamless experience. Users can either copy the image to the clipboard for further editing or share it directly through various apps.
Previously, the visual lookup feature solely facilitated text copying. While Android devices offer a three-finger swipe-down gesture for quick screenshots, it captures the entire screen, necessitating subsequent cropping. This new functionality streamlines the process, allowing users to select and share specific screen sections in just two steps.
Interestingly, Google recently addressed concerns about accidental activations of Circle to Search in a podcast featuring its developers. They acknowledged the issue and assured users of an impending fix. This indicates ongoing efforts to refine the feature for a smoother user experience.
Technology News
Discounted OnePlus Nord CE 3 price in India: Check it out!

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 has recently undergone another price reduction in India, marking a significant update for potential buyers. Initially introduced to the Indian market in June 2023, this smartphone received its first price adjustment in November of the same year. The base variant, featuring 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, was notably listed at a price Rs. 2,000 lower than its launch price, signaling OnePlus’s commitment to providing competitive pricing to its customers.
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset and ships with the Android 13-based operating system. It boasts a triple rear camera setup, enhancing its photography capabilities, and supports SuperVOOC charging, ensuring rapid replenishment of its battery. The inclusion of these features positions the Nord CE 3 as a compelling option for smartphone enthusiasts seeking a balance between performance, affordability, and innovation.
The recent unveiling of the OnePlus Nord CE 4 in India marks the continuation of OnePlus’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to its users. Serving as the successor to the Nord CE 3, the Nord CE 4 is expected to build upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing new enhancements and features to further elevate the user experience.
When considering the revised pricing of the OnePlus Nord CE 3, it’s evident that OnePlus aims to make its devices more accessible to a wider audience. The reduction in price, particularly on platforms like Amazon and the OnePlus India website, presents an opportunity for consumers to acquire a high-quality smartphone at a more affordable rate.
Let’s delve deeper into the specifications and features of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 to understand its capabilities and appeal to potential buyers.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Price in India (Revised)
The base variant of the OnePlus Nord CE 3, featuring 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, was initially launched in India at Rs. 26,999. Following its first price cut in November, the price was reduced to Rs. 24,999. Now, the same variant is available on Amazon at Rs. 22,990, representing a Rs. 2,009 reduction from its previous price. Furthermore, customers can benefit from an additional flat Rs. 2,000 instant discount on ICICI and HDFC Bank cards, bringing the effective price down to Rs. 20,990.
On the OnePlus India website, the 8GB + 128GB variant is priced at Rs. 22,999, marking a Rs. 2,000 decrease from the November price of Rs. 24,999. It is worth noting that this discount is exclusively applicable to the 128GB model, as the higher-end 256GB variant is currently listed as out of stock.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Specifications and Features
Display:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 boasts a 6.7-inch full-HD+ fluid AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,412 pixels. With a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, users can enjoy smooth and fluid visuals, enhancing their overall viewing experience.
Processor and Performance:
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 782G SoC, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 delivers robust performance and efficient multitasking capabilities. With up to 12GB of RAM and up to 256GB of onboard storage, users can seamlessly navigate between apps and store their multimedia content with ease.
Operating System:
The smartphone ships with Android 13-based OxygenOS 13.1, providing users with a clean and intuitive user interface coupled with a plethora of customization options. OxygenOS is known for its smooth performance and timely software updates, ensuring that users stay up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
Camera:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 features a versatile camera setup, comprising a 50-megapixel primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) and electronic image stabilization (EIS) support. Accompanying this primary sensor is an 8-megapixel sensor with an ultra-wide-angle lens and a 2-megapixel macro shooter, allowing users to capture a wide range of subjects with stunning detail and clarity. On the front, the device houses a 16-megapixel sensor for high-quality selfies and video calls.
Battery and Charging:
Equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 offers ample battery life to power through a full day of usage. Additionally, the device supports 80W wired SuperVOOC charging, enabling users to quickly replenish the battery and minimize downtime.
Connectivity:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 supports a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, GPS, and USB Type-C. Whether it’s streaming multimedia content, browsing the web, or staying connected with friends and family, users can rely on the Nord CE 3 to deliver seamless connectivity and performance.
Security:
For enhanced security, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 features an in-display fingerprint sensor, allowing users to conveniently unlock their device with a simple touch. This biometric authentication method adds an extra layer of protection to safeguard sensitive data and personal information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 offers a compelling combination of performance, affordability, and innovation, making it an attractive choice for smartphone enthusiasts in India. With its recent price reduction and competitive specifications, the Nord CE 3 presents a compelling value proposition for consumers seeking a high-quality smartphone experience without breaking the bank. As OnePlus continues to innovate and introduce new features with each iteration, the Nord CE 3 stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional devices tailored to the needs of its users.
Technology News
Namma Yatri launches cab service in Bengaluru

In its largest market, Bengaluru, ride-hailing company Namma Yatri has expanded its services to include cab-hailing, marking a significant shift from its previous focus on auto rickshaws. Namma Yatri, known for pioneering a daily subscription model as opposed to the commission-based model utilized by competitors like Ola and Uber, had initially concentrated on auto rickshaws in Bengaluru. However, it now features a distinct section on its app dedicated to booking cabs in the city. Additionally, Namma Yatri already provides cab rides in Kochi and Kolkata.
The decision to venture into cab services follows Namma Yatri’s separation from its former parent company, Justpay, and comes on the heels of a reported expansion plan announced on April 1st. The move also aligns with the broader trend observed in the industry, as both Ola and Uber have recently introduced subscription-based plans for auto-rickshaw drivers on their platforms. This strategic shift towards subscription-based models, akin to Namma Yatri’s approach, as well as that of Rapido, highlights a growing preference within the industry for alternative pricing structures beyond traditional booking fees or commissions.
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Why Millennials, GenZs Are Riding The Investment Tech Wave In India
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Startups That Caught Our Eyes In September 2023
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
How Raaho Is Using Tech To Transform India’s Fragmented Commercial Trucking
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Meet The 10 Indian Startup Gems In The Indian Jewellery Industry’s Crown
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
WOW Skin Science’s Blueprint For Breaking Through In The $783 Bn BPC Segment
-
Crptocurrency11 months ago
Lither is Making Crypto Safe, Fun, and Profitable for Everyone!
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
How Volt Money Is Unlocking The Value Of Mutual Funds With Secured Lending
-
E-commerce1 year ago
Top Online Couponing Trends To Watch Out For In 2016