Focusing on both the hazard and the vulnerability aspects of floods, this book addresses floods in South Asia from a multidisciplinary perspective. The characteristics and nature of the flood problem and its management are examined. It is suggested that flood control and management focused on structural solutions using embankments and reservoirs are insufficient. Effective solutions must go beyond structual measures and require major restructuring of both legal systems and institutions responsible for management.
The book is undoubtedly of considerable interest to flood experts. It refers to the most difficult area of the globe, where flood hazard is very far from being satisfactorily controlled. It is necessary to live with floods and try to minimize damage. The book is a valuable source of information and data on floods, flood damage and flood protection and management. Also the list of references is useful and comprehensive. (Zbigniew W. Kundzewicz in Hydrological Sciences Journal, 49: 5, October 2004)