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Panel 2 – Flood-Resilient Cities: How Do We Get There?

24 JUNE 2025, TUESDAY

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

ROOM 1

The SIWW-IAHR Joint High-Level Panels will discuss case studies and solutions on how industry can provide access to knowledge, technology and innovation to support the transformation of cities to become more climate resilient.

Programme

Panel 2 – Flood-Resilient Cities: How Do We Get There?

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Improving city resilience to floods and extreme weather events requires a comprehensive approach that combines infrastructure enhancements, proactive urban planning, and community engagement. Cities must invest in robust drainage systems, flood barriers, and climate-adaptive buildings, while incorporating green solutions like permeable surfaces, urban forests, and restored wetlands to manage stormwater and reduce flood risks. Early warning systems, coupled with well-defined emergency preparedness plans, are crucial for minimising damage and protecting lives. Strategic zoning regulations and sustainable land-use practices help prevent development in flood-prone areas, while community-based resilience initiatives ensure that residents are informed and prepared. By leveraging data, advanced modeling, and fostering collaboration across sectors, cities can strengthen their capacity to withstand extreme weather and ultimately creating safer environments for their communities.

Speakers

Prof Vladan Babovic, Professor, National University of Singapore
Julia Fraser, East Asia & Pacific Regional Practice Director, Planet Director, World Bank Singapore Office
Dr Ioan Nistor, Professor, Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Ottawa and IAHR Lead Team on Resilience and Disasters
Stefan Szylkarski, Executive Vice-President, DHI
Mok Wing-cheong, Ringo, Director, Drainage Services Department, Hong Kong SAR
Dr Virginia Newton-Lewis, Head of Water and Development, Grundfos Foundation

Moderator

Murali Ram, Regional Director for East Southeast Asia & Oceania at C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group

Speakers

Prof Vladan Babovic Professor, National University of Singapore Prof Vladan Babovic	Julia M. Fraser East Asia & Pacific Regional Practice Director, Planet Director, World Bank Singapore Office Julia M. Fraser	Dr Ioan Nistor Professor, Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering and IAHR Lead Team on Resilience and Disasters, University of Ottawa Dr Ioan Nistor	Stefan Szylkarski Executive Vice-President, DHI Stefan Szylkarski
Ringo Mok Wing-cheong Director, Drainage Services Department, Hong Kong SAR Ringo Mok Wing-cheong	Dr Virginia Newton-Lewis Head of Water and Development, Grundfos Foundation Dr Virginia Newton-Lewis