Correct Answer: increased deforestation in the catchment area

Solution : The correct option is increased deforestation in the catchment area.

Deforestation in catchment regions can increase flooding in North India by reducing plant cover, promoting soil erosion, and altering natural water flow patterns, increasing the danger of flooding. Trees and forests have an important function in absorbing and slowing down precipitation, enabling it to gradually permeate the soil. When trees are cut down, there is less interception and transpiration, which can result in quicker runoff and higher surface water flow.