The cause for floods in India is due to deforestation.

Deforestation has been identified as one of the major causes of floods in India. Here is an explanation of how deforestation contributes to the occurrence of floods:

1. Destruction of natural barriers:
- Forests act as natural barriers against heavy rainfall and control the flow of water.
- The trees and vegetation in forests help to absorb rainwater, which reduces the speed and volume of runoff.
- When forests are cleared, there are no longer any natural barriers to slow down the flow of water, leading to increased chances of flooding.

2. Soil erosion:
- Trees play a crucial role in holding the soil together with their roots.
- When forests are cut down, the exposed soil becomes vulnerable to erosion.
- Heavy rainfall washes away the topsoil, leading to soil erosion.
- Eroded soil is carried by streams and rivers, increasing their sediment load.
- The accumulation of sediment in riverbeds reduces their capacity to hold water, leading to floods during periods of heavy rainfall.

3. Reduced water absorption:
- Forests act as natural sponges by absorbing rainwater and releasing it slowly over time.
- The roots of trees help to enhance the water-holding capacity of the soil.
- Deforestation reduces the ability of the land to absorb water effectively.
- As a result, rainwater runs off the surface quickly, leading to an increase in surface runoff and contributing to floods.

4. Loss of biodiversity:
- Deforestation leads to a loss of biodiversity and disrupts the ecological balance.
- The disappearance of various plant and animal species affects the overall health of the ecosystem.
- The absence of certain vegetation can disrupt the natural flow of water and contribute to flooding.

In conclusion, deforestation in India has a significant impact on the occurrence of floods. The removal of forests results in the destruction of natural barriers, soil erosion, reduced water absorption, and the loss of biodiversity. These factors collectively contribute to the increased frequency and intensity of floods. It is crucial to address deforestation through effective conservation measures to mitigate the risk of flooding in India.