Investigating the Significance of Modern Technology-based Flood Forecasting and Anticipation: A Case Study of National Emergency Operation Centre

Abstract

Flood forecasting and anticipation are becoming integral parts of disaster risk reduction because of the growing frequency and intensity of floods, which are consequences of climate change and urbanization. Pakistan, particularly vulnerable to climate-induced disasters, has faced devastating flood events, such as those in 2010 and 2022, which caused widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and human lives. This research study attempts to investigate the role of modern technology-based flood forecasting in improving preparedness and response mechanisms, with specific attention to the NEOC of Pakistan. This research is a comprehensive review of current policies and strategies for flood management in Pakistan, identifying their gaps, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. This research has exemplified the policy in flood management and its incorporation with modern technology, such as remote sensing, GIS, hydrological models, and artificial intelligence, which could be devised for better frameworks of flood forecasting and overall management. The research also identifies some of the best practices in the area of flood management around the globe, which give an insight into community-led initiatives and modern technologies applied towards resilient infrastructures and effective flood response. It provides actionable recommendations to policymakers for adopting a more integrated, equitable, and technology-driven approach toward better flood management in order to enhance disaster preparedness in the country and reduce the socio-economic impact on the vulnerable population.