Flood control programs need science, says DOST's Solidum

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said floods in Metro Manila and provinces can be managed through a science-based approach in crafting and implementing flood control programs.

In a recent forum, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. stressed the need for an integrated water resource management program in the implementation of flood control initiatives.

He said this approach focuses on providing tailored interventions for specific river or sub-river basins. Such an approach necessitates conducting studies to assess waterways and evaluate the risks associated with construction projects in these areas, he added.

“DOST can provide the science and technology to make sure that these things are mapped well and the data are used in planning,” Solidum said.

For example, he said the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) can provide digital elevation models and forecasting tools to assess the capacity of rivers and drainage systems to handle the increased rainfall volume resulting from climate change and rapid urbanization.

"DOST can play a crucial role in supplying essential data, tools, and research that are vital for implementing a smarter and more effective government infrastructure program," the Science secretary said.

“You see, it is not simple. All these should use science as basis for planning,” he added.

Solidum also proposed integrating flood control initiatives into a Geographic Information System (GIS) map. This would enable planners and decision-makers to easily assess whether proposed projects can be effectively integrated with the surrounding environment and existing structures.

“You build a road; you elevate a subdivision by 10 meters — that’s basically a dam if there’s no proper drainage. The water has nowhere to go,” Secretary Solidum emphasized. “This is what we should be thinking about what the effect of the current project on the next flood,” he said.

He said science, data, and improved coordination and integration in both local and national flood control planning are key to an effective flood control program. —LDF, GMA Integrated News