The City of Utrecht as a Flood-Proof City An Assessment of flood management and governance of Utrecht

Abstract

Climate change and urbanization increased the risk of flooding in the cities and urban areas, highlighting the need for resilient flood risk management in Urban areas. Involving public and private stakeholders and the community in the formulation of policies and decision-making procedures is essential to the governance of water resources. For efficient flood control and equitable decision-making, a coordinated and inclusive strategy encompassing the public and private sectors, stakeholders, and public participation frameworks is required. Despite having a strong flood defense system, the Netherlands needs to be e resilient due to hazards from urbanization, climate change, and economic expansion. To improve the resilience of the Dutch city of Utrecht which experienced extreme water events in recent years, the Municipality of Utrecht has adopted a governance approach for climate adaptation. To effectively manage flooding in Utrecht, the Municipality, Waterboard, Safety Regions, and other stakeholders work together. It is crucial to employ adaptive methods, accept uncertainty, and develop damage-prevention plans in managing flood risk. This thesis aimed to evaluate the flood risk management of Utrecht. The study assesses flood-proofing strategies and the adaptability of flood management and governance to safeguard urban areas from the effects of precipitation and climate change. The research examines the steps taken by Utrecht's flood management governance and their efficacy in boosting resilience using a literature review, policy analysis, and stakeholder interviews. Three components of policy and planning, infrastructure and technology, and community engagement and participation were selected to evaluate the flood risk management and governance of Utrecht based on different literature. In the thesis's conclusion, suggestions are made for enhancing Utrecht's flood management and governance. The importance of ongoing stakeholder cooperation, openness, and public involvement is highlighted. The study emphasizes the need for a thorough and inclusive approach to improve flood resilience in urban areas and helps to comprehend community engagement and collaboration in water management governance.