China has published new guidelines that will enable systematic flood risk assessments and put in place sustainable efforts to strengthen disaster prevention and control.
According to a news report in www.chinadaily.com.cn the country plans to significantly improve its flood control capabilities by 2035, with a modernised river basin flood control and disaster reduction system largely in place.
The news report said these measures are a part of the guidelines recently issued by the general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, China's Cabinet.
The measures being planned also include relocating people and industries to low-risk areas, evacuating unstable arable lands, upgrading infrastructure and introducing a flood insurance system in high-risk areas.
Efforts will focus on optimising a comprehensive flood control engineering system that includes reservoirs, river channels, embankments and flood detention areas. The guidelines also stress the significance of improving weather forecasting, enhancing the sharing of early warning information and strengthening disaster response capabilities.
The guidelines said it is important to maintain the stability of rivers by adopting a new flood control and disaster reduction approach that prioritises synergy between river basins and regions, along with the integration of engineering and non-engineering solutions.
The new proposals would also enhance the protection and governance of its rivers, emphasising the comprehensive management of water-related disasters, water resources, and the ecology and environment of the waterways.
The guidelines also entail measures that enhance the protection of drinking water sources, promote water culture preservation and improve river management mechanisms.
The guidelines highlight the need for coordinated efforts in river protection and management among financial, natural resources, ecology and environment, and transport authorities. The guidelines also encourage public participation and social supervision in river protection efforts.