flood management technical methods for pakistan

8/8/2019 Flood Management Technical Methods for Pakistan

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Flood management technical methods for Pakistan

INTRODUCTIONFloods are almost annual events in Pakistan. Pakistan has been experiencing floods mainly

because of its topography, Sind, Kabul and swat are three hazard prone rivers, and due toclimatic and ecological condition, Pakistan constantly received flooding every year. This isnot a matter of concern every year. However, when floods exceed normal flooding level,they take dangerous turns. Many times in the history of Pakistan, floods took severe andsometimes catastrophic turns. In the past Pakistan experienced severe floods in 1973,1992, 2006 and 2010. But 2010 flood breaks all past records. Latest Government estimatesput the number of people directly affected by the floods at 15.4 million, and the numbercontinues to rise (National and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities, 16 August).Assessments to establish the degree to which affected populations are in need of immediatehumanitarian assistance continue. The official death toll has risen to 1,402, with 2,024people reported as injured. Over893,000 houses are now reported to have been either damaged or destroyed.

Pakistan is one of the most natural disaster-prone countries in the World. Natural disastersoften result in great losses, both in terms of materials and peoples lives.Due to its unique geo-climatic conditions, Pakistan is one of the most disaster pronecountries in the world. Four provinces, AJK and Gilgit baltastan are vulnerable to one or theother geo-climatic disaster. Over 40% of landmass is vulnerable to earthquakes, 6% tocyclone, 60% to floods and 25% of the Barani land under cultivation is vulnerable todrought.2010 extreme floods results the loss in terms of lives and assets have been incalculable. Adisaster wipes out the gains achieved in decades of development in the affected area.Repeated disasters threaten sustainable development in Pakistan Disasters destroy decadesof human effort and investments, thereby placing new demands on society forreconstruction and rehabilitation.

. If one adds the losses in countries like Pakistan, where most of the property of the people,especially in the rural areas remains uninsured, the losses are astronomical.The unique geo-environmental setting of the North Himalayas, the heavy rainfall, weakgeological formations, accelerated rates of erosion followed by silting and meandering ofrivers, very high seismicity makes the Northern area one of the most disaster prone regionsin the country. Considering this, and the comparative inaccessibility, the North regiondemands special attention to minimize loss of lives and social, private and community lossesand to ensure sustainable development.Vulnerability to natural disasters combined with socio-economic vulnerability of the peoplepose a great challenge to the government machinery.

Disasters in PakistanPakistan is confronting series of disasters in recent past, 2005 earth quake, Hunza land

slide, air blue crash, and 2010 Floods, are major disasters. These disasters have differenttype and onset but resulted huge damage to life and property .Pakistan is facing differentproblems like terrorism, political uncertainty which badly affected the government and itsinstitutions capacity.Government of Pakistan after 2005 earth quake establish a authority for disastermanagement but due to lack of technical knowledge and manpower the authority fail to playits role effectively while coping these disasters, there is an urgent need to built the capacityof this authority and also clearly lay down its bylaws and mandate , NDMA think that its roleis only to regulatory which is totally wrong perception, the role of any National disaster


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management authority all over the world is to regulate ,coordinate , develop systems andtrain technically manpower for disaster management.

Disaster management in PakistanDisaster management is multidimensional field and required technical knowledge to get jobdone ,army can not manage disaster , army can manage war and law and order ,the only

role army can play in disaster management is that they can respond to post disaster phasefor rescue , relief and recovery on request , but here we misuse army in disastermanagement which not only kept them away from their original task but also put extraburden on armed forces, in spite from the fact that army play a exceilent and efficient rolein all national calamities , on other hand it also indicate weakness in NDMA ,which isresponsible to provide technical assistance to other government agencies in disastermanagement, But we witness that due to lack of technical knowledge and techniques wesuffer maximum damages in term of life and property, e.g. in Air Blue crash the planecaught by fire for many hours and rescue workers reached the spot in minimum possibletime but they fail to control the fire and rescue the victims because they dont have firefighting knowledge ,this fire can easily be controlled if they put green bushes on fire whichis very effective instrument in absence of water, these green bushes are wild andextensively available at crash spot ,but we let the bodies burn to ashes ,secondly I also

observed the search operation for black box which was also conducted in nonprofessionalmanners ,CDA worker and other common people are exploring the area like doges exploringbones outside the butcher shop and official called its search operation which is purelytechnical think and done through scientific methods.These type of searches must be carried out by train searchers according to searchmethods(triage search or up to down left to right search) and with the support of magneticrods which identified black box and this type of search is called electronic search ,which iscorrect and scientific method of search. I think that we can safe life of the people if we havetrained USAR team for future emergencies.

DISASTER RESPONSE SYSTEM IN PAKISTAN

Due to frequent occurrence of disasters induced by natural hazards, the National disastermanagement authority(NDMA), which has been given the responsibility and mandate forcoordinating national disaster management efforts across all agencies. The newly bornauthority fails to develop system across the country to handle disaster at national level .Training and capacity building of the officials dealing with emergencies would be animportant instrument of disaster reduction and recovery. While natural hazards cannot becontrolled, the vulnerability to these Hazards can be reduced by planned mitigation andpreparedness measures. There needs to be concerted and sustained steps towards reducingthe vulnerability of the community to disasters.

Importance of disaster managementTaking into consideration the value of development gains which are wiped out throughdisasters, as also the huge quantum of funds required for post disaster relief and

rehabilitation, any investment in disaster mitigation will yield a higher rate of return thanany other development project. Also considering the developmental gains, which are wipedout because of disasters, all development schemes/projects will need to incorporate disasterassessment and vulnerability reduction as critical components in order that the developmentprocess be sustainable. Therefore, a paradigm shift has now taken place with the shift infocus from reactive to proactive i.e. from relief to prevention and mitigation of disasters.

PAKISTAN ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE FOR DISASTER MANAGEMENTNDMA National


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PDMA ProvincialDDMA District

IMPACTS OF 2010 FLASH FLOODINGMany houses and bridges have been destroyed due to flash flooding and also, due to thewater accompanied debris, which mostly consists of timber logs, tree branches and

uprooted trees of different sizes. The mass of debris has been created by destabilization ofslope, the sub soil layer and vegetation over the same which is transported by thefloodwaters. Mountainous watershed systems in northern Pakistan collectively send water torivers leading downstream areas.

2010 FLOOD IN URBAN AREAS NOSHERAThe city of Noshera and few other urban areas of Punjab and Sind located in the flood plainof the swat and Sind Rivers badly destroyed by floodwater associated with heavy rain. Theurban area is located in the catchments, In Noshera city debris flow and flooding causeddamages and losses to shops, commercial centers and house hold items such as furniture,electronic items so on. The city transportation system, water supply, sewerage and drainagesystems were also subjected to severe destruction or failure in functioning.

Consequences of poor disaster management2005 earth quake is fast onset disaster, all damages are natural and one can not criticizedgovernment or any authority because in fast onset disaster damage to life and property cannot be minimized by any mean, 2010 flood is slow onset disaster in which damage to lifeand property is failure of NDMA and government of Pakistan because in slow onset disasterdamages can be minimized if a country have system in place (like early warning system,hazard assessment, risk calculation etc). Political differences amongst federal and provincialgovernments leading the Flood 2010 disaster toward complex disaster.If government of Pakistan and international community fail to manage or poorly managed2010 flood disaster then it will resulted dire consequences for Pakistan and rest of the world.If we calculate the amount of damage, magnitude and spread of this disaster, there is aimmediate need to manage this disaster properly, if serious steps will not be taken by

Government, UN and donor countries the situation will create complex disaster which lateron change into second disaster which not only affect Pakistan but the whole civilized world.

Complex Disasters-Complex disasters exist where adverse political conditions compound a disaster oremergency situation. Such situations are complicated because the breakdown of the politicalstructure makes assistance or intervention difficult. This sort of emergency is usuallyassociated with the problems of displaced people during times of civil conflict or with peoplein need caught in areas of conflict.

THE SECOND DISASTERThe actual disaster results in a lot of damage to the population in terms of loss of life andproperty. This direct result can be dubbed as the first disaster. The impact of the first

disaster sends another wave of damage triggered by chain of events relating to the firstdisaster by means of cause-and-effect, resulting in indirect damage to people remote fromthe original disaster. This can be called the second disaster. For example, tsunami hadcaused loss in terms of life, damage to houses, etc. This is the first disaster. This leads todisruption in the trade of fishing industries, which suffers massive financial losses. Thelosses suffered by these industries results in lower wages and salaries to those involved inthe fishing business. These people cannot repay their loans, resulting in losses to moneylenders, and so on. Such events can also result in higher incidences of Looting robberiescivil war, heart attacks, strokes, suicides and homicides. This is called second disaster and


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can be in greater magnitude than the first disaster. Proper rehabilitation and care of thevictims of first disaster can break the chain of events leading to the second disaster.NDMA must prepare national disaster plan for flood victims to avoid above stated situationsand also centralized all disaster management activities for effective recovery at nationallevel and setup national early warning system, Hazard assessment, and Risk and hazardmapping for minimizing damages in any future event. Apart from an effective disaster

response system, it is important to have a good flood prevention and mitigation system toachieve objectives of vulnerability reduction.

Supportive TechnologiesA number of tools are available to array and display information for the use of technicalexperts, to explain programmes of flood damage reduction to the decision-makers, and tocommunicate real time forecasts and warnings to the public. In general the tools should beinteractive in the sense that the information can be easily updated, and flexible enough todevelop scenarios, and to provide visual and quantitative information regarding the state ofconditions during the forecasted event.

FLOOD ADVISORY/WARNING (READY, GET SET, GO)

MEANINGThe message suggests awareness that flooding is possible within the next24 hours Themessage suggests preparedness and that flooding is threatening within the next 12 hoursThe message prompts response as flooding is expected to occur/or will persist within thenext 12hours.

To minimize flood damage the basic approach is to prevent flood waters from reaching thedamage vulnerable centers. The Flood Forecasting Network sends information to all themajor flood prone inter-Provincial river basins in the country. Information from satellites isused for mapping and monitoring flood prone areas. The Flood commissioner under theMinistry of Water issues flood forecasts and Warnings. A flood alert is issued well in advanceof the actual arrival of floods to enable People to take appropriate measures and shift to

safer places.Despite this, floods continue to be a menace primarily because of the huge quantum of silt,which has raised the bed level in many rivers. During high floods, many breaches occur,causing inundation over vast areas for most of the monsoon months of June to September.The country thus needs a better and effective flood mitigation system to ensure the safetyof its people and economy.

Who is Responsible for damages?2010 floods are historical in term of magnitude and spread out, Pakistan is exposed tofloods almost every year but the recent floods breaks all records of the past, If we put birdeye view on and affected area we see that amount of damage is maximum in term ofproperty and livelihood, If we calculate damages ,first of all food basket of the countrycompletely destroyed ,loss of livelihood ,loss of infrastructure. These damages can not be

recovered or rehabilitated in short period of time by any mean, these damages areirrecoverable and irreversible, e.g. The soil of fertile basin plate of Indus River badlypolluted and overlapped by flood salty mud which can not be removed shortly, this type ofdamage can create drought in country.

(1) Governments of Pakistan is responsible for Immoveable property and livelihooddamages.As a disaster manager I agree from the fact that in floods damages to moveable propertycan not be minimized by any mean but we can mitigate the risk of a hazard in pre flood


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period.Past and present Governments of Pakistan are responsible to Irrecoverable Damage to foodbasket or Indus basin plate of Pakistan ,because this damage can be minimized ifgovernment of Pakistan built Dams which is best instrument of flood control , Sind river isbiggest in water flow but its water never ever generate floods because of Terbela dam whichcapacitated large amount of water and utilized for energy and irrigation purposes in spite

from the fact that sind river have large potential of flood creation, Swat and kabal riversgenerated flood because there water is unchecked or free in flow, technically both riversmust have dams for control over its water and flow but due to lack of technical knowledge,mindless politics and poor planning of government of Pakistan and its concern institutionswhich not only push the country in darkness butt also destroyed its only god giftedagriculture resource.

(2)NDMA is responsible for damages to Life and moveable property.In disaster manger eyes NDMA is responsible for damages to life and immoveable property,Because flood is slow onset disaster not a fast onset disaster, which give enough time toAuthorities for preparation and mitigation ,if NDMA have national disaster managementstrategy in place which includes (countrywide early warning system ,emergencymanagement plan, Hydro meteorological hazards assessment, Structural / non-structural

measures, , Environmental impact assessment, Environmental degradation assessment,Forecast ) damages can be minimized ,but due to lack of technical management andpreplanning the whole country exposed to floods resulted damages to life and property ofpeople ,on the other hand government and army also faced hard time in rescue and reliefdue to sudden occurrence. This poor management of flood raises questions in mind ofinternational community that Pakistan suffers huge damages to life and property in slowonset disaster due to mismanagement .People of Pakistan are already suffering from poverty and energy crisis, now lost their breadand butter .Being a disaster manager we know that the impact of flood disaster is moredestructive then earth quake, In earth quake damages are bi end while in floods damagesare uni- end (bi-end life and property, uni-end only property).In earth quake people last there life, in floods people losses their livelihood and property so

they demanded more resources and compensation and disaster of this nature need muchresources and money for rehabilitation as compare to earth quake ,because populationremain same and resources reduced.

Potential Flood Hazard in PakistanI think that we have manpower and instrument but due to lack of technical knowledge wesuffer damages in disasters, Flood mitigation is not difficult task ,it can be managedproperly through flood mitigation system, In Pakistan we have three potential Flood HazardMoon soon rains, Northern glaciers and Dams Firstly the country is more commonly exposedand vulnerable to moon soon rains which are predictable and come periodically ,Withmodern satellite weather forecast we can take affective measures to minimize its damages,because in floods only immovable property and crops are vulnerable and people , livestockand moveable property can be saved ,but here we suffer maximum damages in flood and

turn whole country in to disaster, we must have early warning system which can informvulnerable community about hazard ,secondly we must have Hazard assessment likeamount of water in rivers , river delta capacity and the water spread area, forecast throughwhich these damages can be minimized.Second potential hazards are Terbela, Mangla dams, which due to any sudden event cancreate Flood disaster, for this type of hazard we must educate those people whose arevulnerable in downstream area about risk and hazard (e.g. Everybody must have boat ortire tubes according to house hold size), this type of risk reduction tools save life of people.


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Third Northern glaciersMelting of glaciers in northern Pakistan due to global warming is also potential hazard, thishazard can generate flood in Pakistan .we can reduce its affect by constructing Dam innorthern area Factors behind flood in Pakistan.

(1) Environmental degradation

Environmental degradation is major factor behind floods in PakistanPotential effects are varied and may contribute to an increase in vulnerability and thefrequency and intensity of natural hazards.Some examples: land degradation, deforestation, desertification, wild land fires, loss ofbiodiversity, land, water and air pollution, climate change, sea level rise and ozonedepletion.

(2)Global warmingGlobal warming is an other major factor of floods in Pakistan, Developed industrial statesand wild fires contributing major share in global warming which resulted heavy and longspell rains, melting of snow, raise in sea level, storms and floods, in my view moon soonrains are annually fall but this time the unpredictable increase in rain fall is due to globalwarming resulted flood in Pakistan e.g. recent wild fire in Russia resulted heavy and large

scale rains in Pakistan resulted flood.

FLOODSA flood is a situation in which water temporarily covers land where it normally doesnt. Thiswater comes from the sea, lakes, rivers, canals or sewers. It can also be rainwater. Floodscan be described according to speed (flash flood), geography or cause of flooding.Floods are among the most common and destructive natural hazards causing extensivedamage to infrastructure, public and private services, the environment, the economy anddevastation to human settlements. Recurring flood losses have handicapped the economicdevelopment of both developed and developing countries. Floods usually are local, short-lived events that can happen suddenly and sometimes with little or no warning. Theyusually are caused by intense storms that produce more runoff than an area can store or a

stream can carry within its normal channel. Rivers can also flood its surroundings when thedams fail, when ice or a landslide temporarily block the course of the river channel, or whensnow melts rapidly. In a broader sense, normally dry lands can be flooded by high lakelevels, by high tides, or by waves driven ashore by strong winds. Small streams are subjectto floods (very rapid increases in runoff), which may last from a few minutes to a few hours.On larger streams, floods usually last from several hours to a few days. A series of stormsmight keep a river above flood stage (the water level at which a river overflows its banks)for several weeks.

FLOOD ASSESSMENT LEVELAlertAlarmCritical

RIVER HEIGHTLevel 4 (The River at a Particular reference point is about 40% full)Level 6 (The river at a particular reference point is about 60% full)Level 10 (The River at a particular reference point is 100% full)

However, all floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period ofdays. But flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and without anyvisible signs of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries


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rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path. Overland floodingoccurs outside a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can bedestructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flashfloods.Flood typesFlash floods

Coastal floodsUrban floodsRiver (or fluvial) floodsPonding (or pluvial flooding)Flood has always been a annual phenomenon in Pakistan , According to the MET departmentGovernment of Pakistan, around 75% of the total rainfall is concentrated over 4 months ofmonsoon (June September) and, as a result almost all the rivers carry heavy dischargeduring these four months.. The most flood prone area is the Indus basins. The wholecountry is vulnerable to floods includes Gilgit Baltastan, KPK, Punjab, Sind, Baluchistan andAJK. But of recent 2010 floods breaks all past records,

Lists of simple things one can do to stay safe and protect one from floods.

Before flooding occurs1. Know the route to the nearest safe shelters that you area aware off.2. Keep the First Aid Kit ready with extra medication for snake bite and diarrhea3. Strong ropes for tying things4. A radio, torch and spare batteries5. Stocks of fresh water, dry food, candles, matchbox, kerosene etc6. Umbrellas and bamboo sticks (to protect from snakes)7. Higher ground where people and animals can take shelter

When you hear a flood warning1. Tune in to your radio or watch for warning and advice2. Keep vigil of flood warning given by local authorities

3. Keep dry food and drinking water and warm clothes ready4. Check your emergency kit

If you need to evacuate1. Pack clothing, essential medication, valuables, personal papers etc in water proof bags tobe taken to the safe shelter.2. Raise furniture, appliances on beds and tables3. Put sandbags in the toilet bowl and cover all drain holes to prevent sewage back flow.4. Do not get into water of unknown depth and current5. Lock your house and take the recommended or known evacuation routes for your area ofsafe shelter.

During Floods1. Drink boiled water or use halogen tablet to purify water before drinking.2. Keep your food covered3. Do not let children remain on empty stomach4. Use bleaching powder and lime to disinfect the surroundings5. Avoid entering flood waters. If you need to enter then were proper foot wear.6. Stay away from water over knee level.

After a Flood


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1. Stay tuned to local radio.2. Do not allow children to play in, or near, flood waters.3. Stay away from drains, culverts.4. Do not use electrical appliances.5. Do not eat food, which has been in floodwaters.6. Boil tap water.

7. Use halogen tablets before drinking.8. be careful of snake bites, snakebites are common during floods.

Flood Resistance and Resilience measures

Flood Resistance and ResilienceWhere buildings must be located in areas with medium to high levels of flood risk, theincorporation of flood resistance and resilience at the design stage can reduce the impactsshould inundation occur. Standard measures include the provision of a minimum freeboardabove ground or predicted flood level, and the use of resilient fixtures and fittings within.Flood resistance measures include: Fitting one way valves to sewage pipes, or the use of temporary bungs; Sump and pump systems to remove water from buildings faster than it enters; and

Temporary door or air vent flood boards to stop the entry of flood water.

Flood resilience measures include: Use of concrete floors rather than timber; Location of boilers, and electrical above the possible flood level; No chipboard or MDF, instead using plastic and metal alternatives; and Lime plaster or cement render rather than conventional gypsum plaster.Retrofitting flooded properties during the repair procedure with these is common practice.These measures are not necessarily more expensive than conventional techniques, but willsignificantly reduce the damage, cost and time to repair if properties are flooded.

Future Proofing

It is important that new developments, particularly in the higher flood risk zones, are futureproofed against uncertainty. Therefore it is advised that proposed flood mitigation measuresassociated with developments are reviewed at the detailed FRA stage, paying attention tothe potential implications of future changes in climate and land use. The application of theprecautionary principle and the provision of freeboard and flood resistance and resilience inbuildings can mitigate future increases in flood risk at relatively low cost at the design andconstruction stage..Other MeasuresMeasures to mitigate the risks of flooding both to and from development are not necessarilylimited to those above. Depending on the specific risks relating to a site, the followinginvestigations / options may need further consideration at the detailed FRA stage ofdevelopment planning:

Flood resistance / resilience measures specific to the potential for groundwater flooding; Management of surface run-on (i.e. runoff entering the site from upslope areas) as partof the developments drainage strategy; Maintenance / improvement of watercourses, culverts, drain and sewerage networks toreduce associated flood risks.

Flood Preparedness PlanningFlood preparedness planning is about putting in place a set of appropriate arrangements inadvance for an effective response to floods. Some of the commonly identified flood


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preparedness activities are: Public awareness rising on flood preparedness, response and mitigation measures; Stockpiling of emergency relief materials i.e., food, fodder for livestock, emergencymedicines, materials for temporary shelter etc; Installation of community-based early warning system for issuance of timely and effectiveflood warnings;

Management of safe areas for temporary removal of people and property from athreatened location; Transportation to safe areas/ evacuation centre; Ensuring access to health and sanitation facilities; Conducting drills and rehearsals.

The key to flood preparedness planning is to have a clarity and agreement on the roles andresponsibilities of relevant stakeholders such as the government line agencies, disastermanagement organizations, Red Cross, voluntary groups as well as community members.Such an arrangement is possible by forming disaster management authorities and teams atvarious levels to agree on set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) defining whatactions to be taken before, during and after floods.

Flood preparedness Planning Systematic arrangement and deployment of resources to reduce the impact of flooddisaster; Vulnerable communities to get access to crucial information, such as timely flood forecastsand warnings; The provision of basic needs, such as shelter and medical care, clean water, sanitation andfood during floods; Continued access to livelihoods, in order to minimize disruption of economic activities; Effective coordination among disaster management agencies to ensure efficientemergency response during floods; Urgent restoration of critical infrastructure and measures to be taken to bring normalcyimmediately after the floods.

COMPONENTS OF FLOOD PREPAREDNESS PLANA flood preparedness plan (FPP) which is an integral component of the multi-hazard disastermanagement plan, is an action oriented document detailing specific actions to beundertaken prior to floods, which set the ground for effective execution of emergencyresponse and recovery activities during and after floods.

The components of a FPP:1. Assessment of probable needs: Based on historical data from previous flood disasters,officials at the State and district levels compile a list of likely needs and available resources.Gaps between needs and resources are identified in advance and also ways to mobilizethem.2. Institutional Mechanism for implementation of FPP: The Flood Preparedness Plan outlines

the institutional structure of the States, District or Community level Committees for DisasterManagement, its roles and responsibilities before, during and after floods. The Plan alsoestablishes the coordination among the line agencies and other stakeholders inimplementation of priority activities identified in the plan.3. Activating early warning and disaster response systems: The FPP defines how to warn thewhole community, based on the forecast received from the national and regional agenciesand what they should do in advance. The plan ensures ways of involving all stakeholders,according to their roles and responsibilities, and outlines these in the plan.4. Resource mobilization and allocation. Responding to a flood requires resources; therefore


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the plan specifies what resources are already available at the State, district, community andvillage levels. The plan also specifies what resources will be needed and where to find thoseresources.5. Communication within and outside the community. To ensure clear and effectivemessages in an emergency, the plan specifies how communication will take place and viawhat media (radio or indigenous systems, etc.)

6. Sectoral components. A flood preparedness plan outlines standard operating procedures(SOPs) for specific measures such as search & rescue, emergency medical assistance,provision of water supply and sanitation, food and nutrition, logistics and transport, health,agriculture and environment management, temporary shelter, evacuation procedures;protection and security.

Implementation Arrangement of the Flood Control and Search & Rescue Plan at all levels.

a. Coordination among Line Agenciesb. Sectoral Plan development Infrastructure Restorationc. Search and Rescued. Relief and Social Policiese. Health, Education and Environment

f. Information and Communicationg. Reporting schemeh and Report formatsi. Dissemination of the Plan

Roles and Responsibility of Line Agencies at Province, District, Cities in three phases ofFlooda. Agriculture

b. Transportc. Educationd. Committee of Population

e. Constructionf. Healthg. Electricity & Waterh. .Post, Radio and Televisioni Industry: j. Hydrometeorology k Policel. Armed forcesm. Red Crossn. Labor, invalids and social affairs:

. Immediate and Long-Term Measure for Flood, Storm Control, Search and Rescue Planningin the Province

a. Safety for infrastructureb. Protection of Agriculture productionc. Exploit the advantage of flood management programsd. Ensure safety for people, particularly, households in high risk arease. Measures for storing food, medicine, equipments, and materialsf. Plan to mobilize military forces and transportation to be ready to respond to naturaldisaster situationsg. Policies to support people to overcome the impact of natural disasterh. Invest to enhance the flood, storm forecasting and warning, search and rescue, dyke


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protection and information dissemination work

. HAZARD, VULNERABILITY AND CAPACITY ANALYSIS

a. Hazardsb. Vulnerability analysis

c. Provincial Resourcesd. Number of Safe Area and Locatione. Transportationf. Communication systemg. Human Resourcesh. Organizations

Technical guidelines for Management of Floods prone Area and communitiesI recommended some technical guidelines to adopt and minimize damages to life andproperty of flood affected Pakistani citizens.

CBFEWSThe capability of communities to monitor and warn people about impending floods is crucial

to protecting lives and property. The high cost of telemeter flood forecasting equipmentprompts a lot of communities in developing countries to search for cheap but equallyeffective mechanisms. One such alternative is a community-based flood early warningsystem (CBFEWS) Flood Warning System consists of two components: flood forecasting as atechnical issue and flood warning and dissemination as a communication.

COMMUNITY RESPONSEConsiderable attention has been given to providing understandable and actionable warningsto target communities. To this end, warning messages have been streamlined with onlythree different stages (READY, GET SET, and GO) so that the public can easily rememberwhat each signal means.

VICTIMSVICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF FLOODAlmost everyone in the population is affected by a disaster. No one is untouched by it.Those who suffer damage are called victims. The victims may die or live. Those whomanage to live are called survivors. These survivors can be classified as.1. Primary survivor One who is exposed to the disaster first-hand and then survives. Theyare called survivor victims.2. Secondary survivor One who grieves the loss of primary victims? Example, a motherwho lost her child, or a man who lost his friend.3. Third level survivor The rescue and relief personnel. These people are also affected dueto the disaster as they are at the site of disaster and undergo almost the same mentaltrauma as the other victims.4. Fourth level survivor Reporters, Government personnel, traders, etc.

5. Fifth level survivor People who read about or see the event in media reports.

PSYCHO SOCIAL ASPECTS OF FLOOD VICTIMSThere is a phenomenal increase in the incidence of psychiatric disorders in the Floodaffected population. The common problems include1. Acute stress disorder2. Post traumatic stress disorder3. Anxiety disorders4. Depression


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5. Alcohol and drug abuseFlood Risk mitigation

Alert-The notice issued indicating that specific precautions should be taken because of theprobability or proximity of a dangerous event.

Emergency managementThe organization and management of resources and responsibilities for dealing with allaspects of emergencies, in particularly preparedness, response and rehabilitation.Emergency management involves plans, structures and arrangements established to engagethe normal endeavors of government, voluntary and private agencies in a comprehensiveand coordinated way to respond to the whole spectrum of emergency needs. This is alsoknown as disaster management.

Hydro meteorological hazards Natural processes or phenomena of atmospheric, hydrologicalor oceanographic nature, which may cause the loss of life or injury, property damage, socialand economic disruption or environmental degradation. Floods bring misery to those thatlive in the area. They can cause loss of life and often cause a great disruption of daily life:

water can come into peoples houses, drinking water and electricity supplies may breakdown, roads can be blocked, and people can not go to work or to school. Floods all over theworld cause enormous damages every year like economic damages, damage to the naturalenvironment and damage to national heritage sites.A flood is a situation in which water temporarily covers land where it normally doesnt. Thiswater comes from the sea, lakes, rivers, canals or sewers. It can also be rainwater.Floods can be described according to speed (flash flood), geography or cause of flooding.Several types of flooding will be described in these pages together with some aspects ofhydrology.Hydrology Water cycle Water storage

A little or lots of water (water quantity) Rainfall intensity Speed (water velocity) Catchment areaHydro meteorological hazards include: floods, debris and mud floods; tropical cyclones,storm surges, thunder/hailstorms, rain and wind storms, blizzards and other severe storms;drought, desertification, wild land fires, temperature extremes, sand or dust storms;permafrost and snow or ice avalanches. Hydro meteorological hazards can be single,sequential or combined in their origin and effects.

HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL MONITORINGThe hydrological monitoring system consists of a network of rainfall and water levelmonitoring stations,

Assessment of flood hazard and existing flood control structures; Identification and verification of locations for rainfall and water level gauges using thenetwork density derived from a topographic map of the river basin; Acquisition, fabrication, and installation of rainfall, water level gauges, and flood markers; Identification and training of community volunteers as rain and water level observers; and Discharge measurement and cross-sectioning of rivers

Risk assessment/analysis A methodology to determine the nature and extent of risk byanalyzing potential hazards and evaluating existing conditions of vulnerability that could


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pose a potential threat or harm to people, property, livelihoods and the environment onwhich they depend.The process of conducting a risk assessment is based on a review of both the technicalfeatures of hazards such as their location, intensity, frequency and probability; and also theanalysis of the physical, social, economic and environmental dimensions of vulnerability andexposure, while taking particular account of the coping capabilities pertinent to the risk

scenarios.Structural / non-structural measures

Structural measures refer to any physical construction to reduce or avoid possible impactsof hazards, which include engineering measures and construction of hazard-resistant andprotective structures and infrastructure.(e.g. Dams,).Non-structural measures refer to policies, awareness, knowledge development, publiccommitment, and methods and operating practices, including participatory mechanisms andthe provision of information, which can reduce risk and related impacts.Flood Mitigation Strategies:There are two different ways to mitigate floods: -1. Structural2. Non- Structural

Structural measures are in the nature of physical measures and help in modifying thefloods, while non- structural measures are in the nature of planning and help in modifyingthe losses due to floods. In the structural measures we keep the water away from peopleand in the non structural measures to try to keep the people away from water. All of theseworks can be individually divided into long term and short-term measures.This tailoring of technical information into displays that are more readily understood isvaluable for explaining programmes to decision-makers, informed experts, and the public atlarge. Highly visual information is particularly valuable for public meetings or open houses,but must be tailored carefully for the audience.

Flood Plain ManagementManagement of activities within the flood prone area can significantly reduce flood damages

to existing development and prevent the amount of damages from rising in the future. Themost desirable approach is to prohibit new development in the flood plain and to flood proofexisting structures, or to replace the existing development by alternative usage of the land.However, where the amount of present development is substantial or the flood plain isessential for the production of food or other key economic activities, alternate strategiessuch as flood and protection can be considered.

A. Structural MeasuresConstruction of dams/diversions/storm channels/levees Construction of protective workssuch asflood storage reservoirs, diversion of water to side channel storage or other watersheds,construction of storm channels to carry water around the area to be protected, and leveesalong the floodway provide tools to reduce flood damages. Such works can be constructed

to various levels of protection, usually based on: 1) minimum standards for floodprotection; 2) the optimum level of costs and benefits based on an economic.Analysis; or 3) to meet established levels of acceptable risk. Protective works should beconsidered when major infrastructure has already been developed and costs to protectexisting investments are far less than those related to reconstruction, lost economic activity,disaster assistance, or relocation of existing structures and activities. However, it must berecognized that at some point in the future the design event will likely be exceeded andcatastrophic damages will result. Levees and storage dams are particularly dangerous whendesign thresholds are exceeded in that unexpected failure can result in a rapid rise in water


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level and make evacuation and emergency protection extremely difficult. Diversions orstorm channels are less prone to catastrophic failure and the level of protectioncontemporarily be increased by emergency measures if the lead-time of the flood warning issufficient. Information must be credible and easily understood. The above techniques,combined with the flood forecast, provide a very effective means of delineating areas at riskand for communicating this to the decision-makers, emergency response teams, and the

public.Flood control storage may be one component of a multi-purpose reservoir development.Over time the operation of the reservoir could be altered to enhance other beneficial uses ofstorage to the detriment of flood control. A commitment to "designated flood storage" andto reservoir operation procedures to achieve that storage is needed. Inspection,rehabilitation and maintenance Structural works require a periodic and systematicinspection, rehabilitation and maintenance programme to ensure that the design capabilitiesare maintained. For example, levees may be subject to weakening due to erosion during apast flood event, by the actions of burrowing animals, or the construction of utility linesthrough the levee. Of particular importance is an inspection programme and responsibilityassigned for rehabilitation and maintenance.Structures such as dams should be subject to a dam safety programme, usually at thenational level, to ensure that the specialized expertise required is available for the

inspection of all structures. Dam safety programmes are carried out in many countries andstandards or guidelines are readily available.

Flood proofing of new and existing structuresAny new construction permitted in the flood plain should be flood proofed to reduce futuredamages. Building codes can be developed that minimize flood damages by ensuring thatbeneficial uses of buildings are located above the design flood elevation. For example,buildings can be raised above the design flood level by placement of fill; stilts or piles usedto elevate the structure; and building utilities can be located above the flood level (Groundfloors can be designed in a way that little flood damage occurs through use of masonrymaterials and specifying that contents must be removable. If any new development isallowed within the flood-prone area, then the impact of that development must be taken

into account to ensure that flood levels do not rise significantly due to the additionalconstriction to flow. Hydraulic analyses can be undertaken to ascertain the impacts ofpotential activities and to keep the rise to within acceptable limits Flood proofing of existingstructures is difficult and expensive. One successful strategy is to link flood disasterassistance available after a flood event to methods of reconstruction that minimize futureflood damages. This approach often requires additional funding over and above a paymentfor damages, but can be costs hared between various levels of government and the owner.This strategy is particularly useful when flooding is frequent and future disaster assistancecan be expected as part of disaster policies. Flood proofing of existing structures can includeraising of structures to prevent damage, relocation of utilities, changed building use,installation of protective walls and waterproof closures, and use of materials that are notdamaged by water and can be easily cleaned after the flood event. Relocation of existingbuildings and structures to an area that is not flood prone is also an option. Buyout and

relocation programmes for a particularly vulnerable development should form a componentof flood proofing initiatives. In many cases it may be more economical to buy out andrelocate the existing use than to protect it. Guidelines for Reducing Flood Losses A numberof critical services such as water lines, power pylons and telephone services often cross theflood plain. These utilities can be protected against the ravages of flooding at relatively lowcost through additional depth of burial, a higher design standard for exposed components,and rising of components above design flood levels. Water supply and treatment plants areparticularly vulnerable. They are often located on the flood plain yet are critical for theprotection of human health during and after a flood event. Such structures need to be


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protected against extreme events and designed to prevent cross-contamination from floodwaters or sewers.

Bridges and roadsBridges generally constrict the flow of water, and they can act as artificial dams if debrisjams on the structure. In all cases, the ir hydraulic characteristics must be considered at the

design stage to prevent an un acceptable rise of water levels upstream of the structure.Bridges are important in terms of maintaining access for evacuation and delivery of medicaland other emergency services. Key transportation corridors should have high designstandards that will with stand extreme flooding events. However not all bridges require ahigh level of protection, and the design criteria can be to a lesser standard that takes intoconsideration the possibility of overtopping. Bridges are expensive, and difficult to replacequickly after a flood event. An alternative strategy is to design the approach roads to be theweak link in the chain so that extreme events wash out the road but do not damage thebridge. Approaches can be quickly repaired after a flood event and transportation corridorsrestored. Road design, either parallel to the river or leading to bridges, must be givencareful consideration. There is a temptation to raise roads that have been overtopped byflood events without giving adequate consideration to the number and size of openingsnecessary to pass local drainage or tributary inflow. In such cases the road can artificially

raise water levels upstream and cause additional flood damage. Roads can act as leveeswhen they are parallel to the river. This is a two-edged sword: while flood protection isprovided, the water level upstream can increase, resulting in additional flood damagesthere. Hydraulic studies must be undertaken before roads are raised to fully establish theimpacts of these activities.

Enforcement of standards and codesThe enforcement of standards and codes for flood-prone areas is as important as the irinitial development. There is a tendency to bend the rules as the memory of a flood eventand its catastrophic consequences gradually fade away with time. Enforcement proceduresand penalties need to be built into the process, and emergency response drills undertakento ensure that flood prevention measures such as waterproof closures still work. An audit

should be performed by higher orders of government with participation of all interestedparties to ensure broad national standards are being met and that codes and rules are beingsuitably followed and enforced. Governments should consider introducing requirements suchas surveyor certificates to verify that design elevations have been met, or inspector reportsthat flood-proofing measures have been implemented. Lending and insurance institutionscould usefully be involved in this process, as they have a vested interest in ensuring thattheir investments are protected.

B. Non-structural MeasuresNon-structural measures are particularly applicable to flood-prone areas that are not yetdeveloped. As such, they are a complement to structural approaches in areas whereadditional development may occur, and they also represent an independent approach wheresome control over flood plain development can be exercised at low cost. Non-structural

approaches do not mean "no use", but rather" wise use".

Land-use planningLand-use planning at the local or municipal level can be a useful tool in reducing future flooddamages. Consideration should be given to ensuring that there are conforming uses inflood-prone areas as part of masterGuidelines for Reducing Flood Losses plan.

The land along a river is highly desirable for parks and recreational uses, as well as for


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ecological reserves. Supportive infrastructure such as washrooms, picnic facilities andchanging rooms can be flood proofed. Private development of conforming uses such as golfcourses can also be considered. The important point here is to integrate the land-useplanning for flood prone lands into the broader plans for the urban and surrounding area.

Zoning of flood-prone lands

The best way to reduce future flood damages is to prevent development from occurring onflood-prone lands. Zoning of such lands is an effective approach, but generally should becoupled with the broader land-use planning mentioned above so that the land has a defineduse. Zoning can be used to reduce damages from flooding and be flexible enough torecognize that other forms of land use are compatible. An example is agricultural use oflands in flood-prone areas where water velocities are low enough not to cause seriouserosion. Flood-prone lands can continue to be used for agricultural purposes, particularly incountries where the amount of agricultural land is limited and self-sufficiency in food supplyis a national goal. It is important, however, to ensure that the supporting infrastructuresuch as buildings and houses are located away from the flood-prone area or flood proofed.It is also important that livestock, machinery or stored crops can be evacuated quickly fromthe area in the event of a flood. This underscores the importance of a flood forecast,warning and response system. Zoning of flood-prone lands as ecological reserves or

protected wetlands can often help to meet broader environmental or biodiversity goals. Inaddition, such lands often play an important role in sustaining the fishery, and they can alsoact as temporary storage and infiltration areas. Riparian buffer strips also reduce themovement of agricultural chemicals and nutrients into the aquatic system.

Redevelopment of flood-prone areasA major flood disaster is sometimes an opportunity to correct the planning errors of thepast. Removal of flood-prone development and conversion of the land to a conforming useis an option to consider. It may be less expensive in the long run to physically relocateflood-prone development, buy it out as part of a disaster assistance programme, or includeits purchase in long term planning. The success of the latter approach can be enhanced bymeasures such as prohibiting improvements not required for health and safety, placing

caveats on the land title, and by obtaining rights of first refusal on resale. Compensationand incentives Compensation as part of disaster assistance should always have as a goalthe reduction of future flood damages. Rather than simply paying for damages, the fundsshould be focused on flood proofing, buy out, relocation and public education on the risksand consequences of living on flood-prone lands.In a similar manner, incentives can be developed that encourage flood proofing orrelocation, and these can be financed through cost-shared programmes. Here the cost offlood proofing can be shared in proportion to the benefits to the various levels ofgovernment of not having to compensate for future flood damages. Property owners shouldalso be expected to pay a reasonable share in view of the enhanced value of a flood-proofedstructure and the reduced inconvenience after a flood. Land exchange programmes can beused as an incentive to relocate from flood-prone lands. In such cases a public entity makesalternate land available and disaster assistance is generally used to pay for relocation or

replacement of structures, depending on the costs and benefits. Incentives can also take theform of penalties. For example, if an individual is aware of the risk of flooding through suchprogrammes as flood plain delineation, or caveats on land titles, and still decides to build onflood-prone land, then that person should bear the consequences of his/her actions and notbe eligible for disaster assistance. However this is difficult to enforce and is reliant on strongpolitical will at the time of announcing disaster assistance.Insurance is an option that needs to be considered, but is probably not feasible in manydeveloping countries at this time.


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Land-use planningBranch of physical and socio-economic planning that determines the means and assessesthe values or limitations of various options in which land is to be utilized, with thecorresponding effects on different segments of the population or interests of a communitytaken into account in resulting decisions.Land-use planning involves studies and mapping, analysis of environmental and hazard

data, formulation of alternative land-use decisions and design of a long-range plan fordifferent geographical and administrative scales.Land-use planning can help to mitigate disasters and reduce risks by discouraging high-density settlements and construction of key installations in hazard-prone areas, control ofpopulation density and expansion, and in the sitting of service routes for transport, power,water, sewage and other critical facilities.

Environmental impact assessment (EIA)Studies undertaken in order to assess the effect on a specified environment of theintroduction of any new factor, which may upset the current ecological balance.EIA is a policy making tool that serves to provide evidence and analysis of environmentalimpacts of activities from conception to decision-making. It is utilized extensively in nationalprogramming and for international development assistance projects. An EIA must include a

detailed risk assessment and provide alternatives solutions or options.Environmental degradation The reduction of the capacity of the environment to meet socialand ecological objectives, and needs.Potential effects are varied and may contribute to an increase in vulnerability and thefrequency and intensity of natural hazards.Some examples: land degradation, deforestation, desertification, wild land fires, loss ofbiodiversity, land, water and air pollution, climate change, sea level rise and ozonedepletion.Effects of Deforestation?

There are a number of adverse effects of deforestation, such as:

Erosion of Soil: When forest areas are cleared, it results in exposing the soil to the sun,making it very dry and eventually, infertile, due to volatile nutrients such as nitrogen beinglost. In addition, when there is rainfall, it washes away the rest of the nutrients, which flowwith the rainwater into waterways. Because of this, merely replanting trees may not help insolving the problems caused by deforestation, for by the time the trees mature, the soil willbe totally devoid of essential nutrients. Ultimately, cultivation in this land will also becomeimpossible, resulting in the land becoming useless. Large tracts of land will be renderedpermanently impoverished due to soil erosion.

Disruption of the Water Cycle: Trees contribute in a large way in maintaining the watercycle. They draw up water via their roots, which is then released into the atmosphere. Alarge part of the water that circulates in the ecosystem of rainforests, for instance, remainsinside the plants. When these trees are cut down it results in the climate getting drier in

that area.

Loss of Biodiversity: The unique biodiversity of various geographical areas is being lost on ascale that is quite unprecedented. Even though tropical rainforests make up just 6 percentof the surface area of the Earth, about 80-90 percent of the entire species of the world existhere. Due to massive deforestation, about 50 to 100 species of animals are being lost eachday. The outcome of which is the extinction of animals and plants on a massive scale.

Flooding and Drought: One of the vital functions of forests is to absorb and store great


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amounts of water quickly when there are heavy rains. When forests are cut down, thisregulation of the flow of water is disrupted, which leads to alternating periods of flood andthen drought in the affected area.

Climate Change: It is well known that global warming is being caused largely due toemissions of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. However, what is

not known quite as well is that deforestation has a direction association with carbon dioxideemissions into the atmosphere. Trees act as a major storage depot for carbon, since theyabsorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is then used to produce carbohydrates,fats, and proteins that make up trees. When deforestation occurs, many of the trees areburnt or they are allowed to rot, which results in releasing the carbon that is stored in themas carbon dioxide. This, in turn, leads to greater concentrations of carbon dioxide in theatmosphere.Change in all above stated condition resulted Flooding, swat and northern area was richedin forest but due to lack of knowledge and information amongst local people aboutimportance of these natural forest , caused serious consequences for them and rest of thecountry in shape of floods.Forecast Definite statement or statistical estimate of the occurrence of a future eventThis term is used with different meanings in different disciplines.

Geological hazard Natural earth processes or phenomena that may cause the loss of life orinjury, property damage, social and economic disruption or environmental degradation.Geological hazard includes internal earth processes or tectonic origin, such as earthquakes,geological fault activity, tsunamis, volcanic activity and emissions as well as externalprocesses such as mass movements: landslides, rockslides, rock falls or avalanches,surfaces collapses, expansive soils and debris or mud flows.Geological hazards can be single, sequential or combined in their origin and effects.Geographic information systems (GIS) Analysis that combine relational databases withspatial interpretation and outputs often in form of maps. A more elaborate definition is thatof computer programmes for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, analyzing anddisplaying data about the earth that is spatially referenced.Geographical information systems are increasingly being utilized for hazard and vulnerability

mapping and analysis, as well as for the application of disaster risk management measures.

Geographic information systemsGeographic Information Systems (GIS) provide a computer-based information andmanipulation system useful in support off low forecasting and emergency response.Information from a variety of sources and scales can be combined as a series of layers,provided that the information can be identified in terms of the common denominator oflocation. For example, information on vegetative cover can be combined with soils and landslope information to estimate infiltration rates for forecasting purposes. Similarly layers ofutility, land use, flood plain delineation, and structures information can help in thedevelopment and updating of emergency response plans. A good representation of the basintopography is an important asset in flood forecasting, emergency action and mitigation. Adigital elevation model (DEM) or digital terrain model (DTM) for the basin should be

developed as part of any GIS. Technologies exist that enable the construction of a"seamless best available" DEM. In other words the DEM is constructed from whatevertopographic information is available. Parts of the basin or certain features may be veryaccurate while others may be quite basic. The DEM can be improved with time. Thedevelopment of inexpensive global position indicators has made GIS information easier toobtain. For example, data network sites, buildings or physical features can now be easilylocated with precision and at low cost. Land use, vegetative cover or soils information is alsoeasier to assemble. Mapping Maps of areas at risk from natural disasters are valuableinformation and communication tools. They can be used for a wide variety of purposes


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ranging from flood plain delineation, zoning and land use planning to presentation ofinformation at public meetings. Zoning maps, however, are static and may require updatingwith time as changes occur. For static information, such as the delineation of the flood-prone area, frequent updating is not required, and maps are a useful reference tool for awide variety of users. Visualization techniques.

GIS and other computer-based informationSystems allow for a wide range of presentational material to be easily generated andtailored to the target audience. Three dimensional displays zoom and scan, and rotationaltechniques can be combined with other informational material such as pictures, overheadsor slides. As an example, a GIS flood inundation map can be generated based on hydraulicmodel derived information. The map can be conveyed to residents in the flood plain and isuseful for depicting the probable impact of the approaching flood.

Public awarenessThe processes of informing the general population, increasing levels of consciousness aboutrisks and how people can act to reduce their exposure to hazards. This is particularlyimportant for public officials in fulfilling their responsibilities to save lives and property inthe event of a disaster.

Public awareness activities foster changes in behavior leading towards a culture of riskreduction. This involves public information, dissemination, education, radio or televisionbroadcasts, use of printed media, as well as, the establishment of information centre andnetworks and community and participation action

Measures and strategies for flood mitigation

Watershed ManagementThe water storage effect of vegetation, soil, shallow groundwater, wetlands and drainage asa direct impact on the flood level in downstream areas. Each of these storage retain certainquantities of water for various periods of time and can influence the timing of tributary flowsand hence their contribution to a flood event. The storage effect can be likened to a sponge

and is dependent on the antecedent conditions and the magnitude of the flood. the impactsof land-use changes on flood events can be both positive and negative, so predictions arehard to make for a specific watershed. Generally the removal of forest and other naturalcover, and the conversion of land to agricultural uses, compacts the soil and reducesinfiltration rates, leading to higher flood peaks. Deforestation is believed to have been asignificant cause of the catastrophic flooding in the Indus River. Deforestation and otherland-use practices can also lead to greater incidences of landslides and mud flows. Naturalwater storage is also generally reduced due to the gradual loss of organic material and soilerosion, once an area is converted to agriculture. Additionally, natural vegetation maytranspire moisture to the atmosphere at a greater rate than replacement crops, therebyaffecting both the amount of storage available in the soil and the amount of local rainfall.Drainage of wetlands and marshes contributes directly to changes in the timing of runoff,the amount of natural storage in the basin, and the vulnerability of the channel to the

erosive forces of water.

Climate Variability and ChangeThere is growing concern about the impact of changing concentrations of greenhouse gaseson our current climate system and the ramifications these changes might have on wateravailability. It is believed that further alterations of atmospheric chemistry could lead toincreased abnormalities in climatic parameters such as temperature, precipitation andevaporate transpiration and might well lead to more dramatic impacts on stream flowpatterns and extreme conditions. Some analyses of stream flow over the last 30 to 60 years


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have shown evidence of increasing and decreasing trends in the low flows, with markedgeographic patterns to these trends. Thus far, there has been less evidence of trends inannual flood data for natural Indus basin. However based on scenarios of projected futureatmospheric conditions, it is anticipated that there might be more pronounced alterations tothe stream flow regimes in various regions of the world. If these projections are correct,more severe or extreme conditions may prevail.

Climate impacts on extreme eventsA number of studies on the potential impacts of climate change on flooding have beencarried out as part of the work of the Inter governmental Panel on Climate Change Thesestudies indicate potential future increases in flood peaks of approximately 15% in temperatezones due to increased storm activity and overall increases in depth of precipitation. At thispoint in time, it is not possible to predict potential increases in flood peaks due to climatechange for specific basins with the degree of certainty necessary for their incorporation intothe design and planning process. However, the freeboard on levees and other works canprobably accommodate the potential modifications in extremes due to climate changethrough modified operating procedures of control structures.

Development of Policies, Strategies and Plans

The development of policies, strategies and plans to combat the risks associated withnatural disasters should be based on a comprehensive risk assessment. This requires anintegrated approach whereby a wide range of mitigation measures should be considered.For example, mitigation activities such as hazardous land mapping (i.e., flood plain mappingplus landslide and mudslide-prone areas) should be designed so that considerations of otherdisaster types lead to sounder overall land use plans. In essence, there would be very littlepurpose in moving people and goods from one risk zone to another, especially if the otherhazard is equally or more apt to occur under the prevailing conditions such as torrentialrain. Within this overall process, full consideration needs to be given to the social,environmental and economic impacts of policy and programme development. This chapterprovides guidance on aspects of flood hazards that need to be considered within the overallplanning process. The aspects contain adhere in are meant to complement other materials

in this guide, such as the development of a flow forecasting and warning system, which areimportant tools within the range of options to be considered.

Basin wide planningReduction of flood losses must be considered, using the basin as the basic planning unit. Itis absolutely essential to have knowledge of water uses, diversions, storage, andmanagement practices in all parts of the basin, as well as the antecedent, present, andforecasted meteorological and hydrological conditions. Trans boundary basins represent aspecial challenge in that international collaboration is required. In such cases considerationshould be given to expanding existing bilateral or regional arrangements for exchange ofdata and information and to the negotiation of treaties or agreements.Agreements can also include the option of projects of mutual advantage funded by all thecountries involved, including construction of flood storage or other flood preventative

measures at the most advantageous locations in the basin as a whole.

DrainageAll planned development, whether in the floodplain or not, must consider the implicationsfor its drainage on flood risk. In particular, this applies to development of green field sites,for which the significant increase in impermeable area can considerably increase runoffvolumes and rates from the site. A strategic approach to the drainage of new urban areas islikely to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the drainage and flood risk managementproposals, and reduce the flood risks associated with new development.


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Integrated Drainage StrategyOpportunities for developing an Integrated Water or Drainage Management Strategy acrossdevelopment site boundaries is recommended, and ideally a catchment-led approach shouldbe adopted.Experience shows that integrated approaches often lead to a more efficient and reliable

surface water management system at a comparatively lower cost because it enables a widervariety of potential flood mitigation options to be used, and a better overall design can beachieved. Integrated management of surface water has potential benefits in addition toflood risk, and can include improved water quality through the use of SuDS and a reductionof water demand through grey water recycling / rain water harvesting. Once the preferreddevelopment area(s) have been selected, consideration should be given at an early stage tothe best way to manage drainage to maximize benefits.

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)PPS 25 requires that new development does not exacerbate flood risks elsewhere, whichmeans there is a need to control drainage and runoff to ensure there are no increases inoverland flow as a result of the development. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) aredesigned to mitigate the propensity of development to generate additional runoff. When

considered at the planning stage, they can be implemented to reduce flood risk todownstream areas.The philosophy of SuDS is to replicate as closely as possible the natural drainage from asite before development so reducing the impact on receiving watercourses. This requires areduction in the rate and volume of runoff from developments...

Guidelines for Reducing Flood LossesThe community and individuals must have a good understanding of what is expected ofthem. A good example would be evacuation. Information that defines evacuation routes,identifies emergency shelters, and specifies actions to be taken before leaving, such asremoving mobile equipment and removing personal goods and furniture, must be availablein advance. Preparedness and response plans detailed response plans need to be prepared

in advance and reviewed with all of the key agencies and players. There is no one"common" response plan as the linkages will be different in each case. The response toataxic chemical spill is very different from the response to a major fire or flood. Not onlymust the plan be in writing and available to those that will be responding, but also it mustbe continually reviewed and updated. Some of the key pieces of information are: whichagency and individuals have the specific responsibility; whom to contact for expert advice;and where to go for information on backup communication systems. This information isconstantly changing and needs to be verified periodically and tested in exercises Multiplecontact points need to be established as the emergency may occur on a week end, holiday,or after regular business hours. Mechanisms for coordination must be included in the plan,including the structure of response committees, where they will meet and sources ofresource information available to them. Often this takes the form of something equivalent toa "war room" where maps, plans, other material and support staff are available

immediately. Inventory of resources A key component of any emergency preparedness planis an inventory of resources that can be accessed. In the case of flooding this could includeitems such as emergency vehicles, buses and trucks, earthmoving equipment, pumps,plastic, plywood, emergency generators, supplies of gravel and sand, sandbags, and mobilecommunications equipment. The inventory should also include access to expertise such assurveyors, levee or slope stability experts, forecasting specialists, the media and communityleaders. Emergency shelters should be designated in advance, their individual capacitydefined and plans made for obtaining sufficient supplies of water, food, medicine andmedical/social assistance. If local resources are not sufficient, then the availability circle


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must be expanded to include adjacent communities, the provincial/state and nationalgovernment levels. Triggering emergency action Advance warning is the key to effectiveresponse. It is possible to set up a series of warnings in advance of an actual extreme stormevent that can be used as alerts. This could start with long-term climatologic forecasts ormore immediate hurricane forecasts that identify potential danger. For specific basins analert could be issued based on antecedent precipitation and rainfall intensity data in

advance of an actual flood forecast. A more detailed forecast would then be issued when allof the data and information required to make a flood forecast became available.The emergency response to such alerts is very site-specific and should be included in theplan. If, for example, emergency actions such as temporary levees are necessary, then thework could begin based on an alert rather than the specific forecast. The same may hold foremergency evacuation. The response to an extreme flood forecast should be immediate,and with no un certainty as to what actions and activities should betaken. The publicexpects governments to act quickly and in a professional manner under such circumstances.Community leaders should be visible, informed and active right from the start. Training andresponse exercises Emergency response teams need to be well trained in advance and theirskills constantly upgraded. Once the disaster strikes, it is too late to train or try to findmissing expertise.Trained staff should know their responsibilities, have immediate access to response plans

and other critical information, and already have built a working relationship with colleaguesin other organizations.The only meaningful way to test response plans is to carry out periodic emergencyexercises. These exercises are meant to simulate real emergency situations and test allaspects of the plan. Costs are significant but have real payback in an actual emergency.Often critical gaps are identified and appropriate backup strategies developed as part of theexercise.

Advance preparationAssuming that there is advance warning of a major storm event, a number of steps can betaken to increase readiness. Such steps include: construction of temporary flood protectionworks; placing emergency response teams on high alert; distribution of critical materials

such as stockpiled sandbags to targeted locations; and preparation of emergency sheltersand hospitals prepared for occupation.The population at risk can be informed of what is expected of them in the actuality of anextreme event. As the event becomes more certain, actions such as evacuation of people,goods and machinery can begin. Even if the event is not as extreme as predicted, thesepreparations help test emergency response plans and inform the public as to the nature ofnatural hazards.Media and public information sessions help set the stage as well. The media are key playersin the link between public officials and the public. It helps if they are familiar with theterminology used in warnings and forecasts and know whom to contact for more detailedinformation during an actual flood event.

After the flood event

The emergency response does not end with the event, but continues through cleanup andresettlement stages. People will want to know what assistance will be made available, whois responsible, and how to go about seeking that assistance. Senior levels of governmentshould develop clearly defined response policies and programmes in advance. In theabsence of such policies, the response is often ad hoc, politically and emotionally motivated,and sets precedents that are not wise in the longer run.

Development of Policies, Strategies and PlansThe development of policies, strategies and plans to combat the risks associated with


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natural disasters should be based on a comprehensive risk assessment. This requires anintegrated approach whereby a wide range of mitigation measures should be considered.For example, mitigation activities such as hazardous land mapping (i.e., flood plain mappingplus landslide and mudslide-prone areas) should be designed so that considerations of otherdisaster types lead to sounder overall land use plans. In essence, there would be very littlepurpose in moving people and goods from one risk zone to another, especially if the other

hazard is equally or more apt to occur under the prevailing conditions such as torrentialrain. Within this overall process, full consideration needs to be given to the social,environmental and economic impacts of policy and programme development. This chapterprovides guidance on aspects of flood hazards that need to be considered within the overallplanning process. The aspects contained herein are meant to complement other materials inthis guide, such as the development of a flow forecasting and warning system, which areimportant tools within the range of options to be considered. Basin wide planning Reductionof flood losses must be considered, using the basin as the basic planning unit. It isabsolutely essential to have knowledge of water uses, diversions, storage, and managementpractices in all parts of the basin, as well as the antecedent, present, and forecastedmeteorological and hydrological conditions.

CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The biggest challenge for Flood Preparedness Planning is the under lying capacities of theNational, Provincial and district authorities as well as the lack of resources to under takeimplementation of the priority activities. In most case, local resources and capacities areoften overlooked, thus relying too much upon external assistance. The linkages betweendisaster management and the national and local socio-economic development processes aremost often ignored, resulting in re-creation of risks in already flood prone communities. Fora successful flood preparedness planning, it is imperative to learn from the experiences andbest practices for greater collaboration and information sharing to enhance the synergy andto extend the resource base for more effective implementation of flood preparednessprograms. It is also important to establish and integrate FPP within the overalldevelopmental plan for securing resources for better implementation.

NoteThese guidelines are developed by me to help Government of Pakistan and otherorganizations working for flood victims in Pakistan.

flood management technical methods for pakistan

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