Question

How does afforestation help in reducing the damage caused by floods?

• A. It decreases the amount of rainfall.
  
• B. It reduces sudden flooding.
  
• C. It helps in rainwater harvesting.
• D. It helps in reducing soil erosion.

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (D)

The correct options are
B It reduces sudden flooding.

D It helps in reducing soil erosion.

In the case of sudden flooding, forest cover helps by obstructing the runoff of rainwater. It also helps in slowing down the speed of the flowing water. So when it floods, it stays on the soil for a longer time allowing it to percolate into the soil thereby recharging the groundwater.
Soil erosion is a cause of floods. The roots of the plants hold the soil together preventing soil erosion. Thus afforestation prevents soil erosion.