What is the Netherlands flood control system & Lesson for Pakistan

Ishraq A Hashmi 

(Netherlands) is a country in the world that is often called the “land of dikes and dams”, because about a third of its land is below sea level. If this country had not built modern dams, dykes and water management systems, half of the country would have sunk into the sea.

Netherlands Model for Dams and Flood Control

After centuries of experience, the Netherlands has developed a systematic and scientific model, which is considered one of the best flood control systems in the world. Its main points are:

1. Dikes and Levees

These are long protective embankments that prevent river and sea water from entering cities and farms.

Approximately 22,000 kilometers of dikes are located throughout the country.

 2. Delta Works Project

A devastating flood in 1953 killed about 1,800 people. After that, the Netherlands built the world's largest flood protection project, called Delta Works.

It includes modern steel barriers, gates, locks, dams and storm surges.

This system controls the flooding of the sea and can be opened or closed when necessary.

3. Polders System

A method of draining land from the sea or river and establishing agriculture or settlements on it.

Water is continuously pumped out. These pumping stations are now powered by electricity and windmills.

4. Room for the River Policy

Instead of relying solely on dams, rivers were given space to expand so that water could flow easily when it rained or snow melted.

 For this:

The land along the riverbank was removed.

Artificial lakes and water channels were created.

During heavy rains, these areas collect water and protect the cities.

5. High-tech monitoring and alarm systems

Water levels and weather are monitored moment by moment using modern sensors, radar and satellite technology.

Immediate evacuation and safety measures are taken in times of danger.

Resultantly, the Netherlands model is not limited to building large dams, but is a comprehensive flood management system in which:

Dams + dikes

Giving a natural path to the flow of water

Artificial lakes and channels

Modern technology

All are used together. This is why today the Netherlands is considered one of the safest countries in the world, even though geographically it is the most vulnerable.

Lessons for Pakistan from the Netherlands Flood Control Model:

Introduction

Pakistan is prone to flood disasters every year. The Indus River and its tributaries, heavy monsoon rains, poor dams and neglect in cleaning drains exacerbate this crisis. On the other hand, the Netherlands (Holland) is a country whose major part of its land is below sea level, but its complete control over water and excellent flood management are an example for the world. Pakistan also needs to learn from this model.

Netherlands Flood Control Model

1. Delta Works:

The Netherlands has built a large number of dams, barriers, and water gates that operate under an automatic system to prevent storm surges and floods.

2. Dikes & Levees:

The water of the sea and rivers is kept under control by building strong protective embankments.

 3. Smart Water Management:

Rainfall and water flow are predicted through modern technology, real-time monitoring and digital models so that timely measures can be taken.

4. Wise Land Use:

Urban planning has preserved natural water routes, residential and industrial constructions are kept away from flood zones.

5. Public Awareness and Involvement:

The government has made the water system a public priority. The public is involved at every level, from school curriculum to community projects.

Lessons for Pakistan

1. Construction of large dams and small reservoirs:

Along with large dams, Pakistan should build small water reservoirs and rainwater harvesting ponds so that rainwater is not wasted and floods can also be controlled.

2. Cleaning of drains and rivers:

It is imperative to remove encroachments and garbage blockages in drains and rivers. Like the Netherlands, natural water routes have to be preserved.

 3. Use of Smart Water Technology:

Satellites, drones and digital models can be used for timely warning of floods. Pakistan needs to modernize its hydrometeorological system.

4. Ban on construction in flood zones:

Unplanned settlement and housing schemes along rivers are the biggest threat. Strict laws need to be made and implemented.

5. Public awareness campaign:

The public should be made aware of water conservation and flood safety at the community level. Water management should be included in the school curriculum like in the Netherlands.

6. International cooperation:

The Netherlands provides consultancy in flood control technology to countries around the world. Pakistan can also modernize its system with the help of their experts.

Conclusion 

The Netherlands model is a clear lesson for Pakistan that water control is not possible without modern technology, better planning, strict laws and public participation.  If we take decisive action today, future generations can be protected from the devastation of floods and water reserves can also revolutionize energy and agriculture.