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Mongolia’s Capital Faces Flood Risk Crisis: Government Turns to Risk Management Strategy for Solution
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia - The Mongolian capital city of Ulaanbaatar is on high alert as it faces a significant flood risk crisis. A recent review by the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) and the World Bank has revealed that the city is highly vulnerable to flooding, with over 60% of recorded floods occurring between 2000-2009.
The Flood Risk Crisis
Experts estimate that if a 1966-sized flood were to happen again, it would result in economic losses exceeding $80 million. The city’s infrastructure, including residential buildings, schools, and medical units, is also at risk, with over 200,000 people living in medium to high flood hazard areas.
Challenges in Disaster Risk Management
Urban planning and growth in the semi-arid city have been major challenges for disaster risk management (DRM) efforts. Poor solid waste management has congested drainage systems, while many sections of existing levees and drainage structures have been demolished or poorly maintained. Rivers are also heavily sedimented, reducing the conveyance capacity of the drainage system.
The Flood Risk Management Strategy
The Flood Risk Management Strategy adopted by the Municipality of Ulaanbaatar in June 2015 highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to flood risk management. The strategy includes five strategic directions:
- Protected river basins
- Resilient urban development
- Improved flood infrastructure
- Safe people and resilient communities
- Good governance and effective flood risk management
Support from GFDRR and World Bank
The city’s DRM efforts are being supported by the GFDRR and World Bank, which are conducting a broad review of the country’s DRM law and building capacity on risk identification and reduction. With a stronger understanding of what drives floods in Ulaanbaatar, the municipality is making important strides towards a more resilient city.
A Multi-Faceted Approach
However, implementing these strategies will require a strong commitment from all stakeholders involved. The World Bank notes that “the historical approach of expanding flood control measures in the city will not be sufficient to manage the growing risk” and that a multi-faceted approach is needed to address the complex causes of flooding in Ulaanbaatar.
Prioritizing Disaster Risk Management
As the capital city of Mongolia continues to grow and urbanize, it is crucial that disaster risk management efforts are prioritized to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. With a strong commitment to implementing the Flood Risk Management Strategy, Ulaanbaatar may yet become a safer home for over half of Mongolia’s people.