Flood risk assessment in the vulnerable economic zones: a case study in the Kelani river basin

Abstract

This research presents a comprehensive framework for managing flood risk in the Kelani River basin, employing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and spatial analysis to enhance flood risk comprehension, support informed decision-making, and facilitate effective flood management. Initially, the framework identifies key parameters influencing flood risk, which are then used to create flood hazard and vulnerability indexes through AHP. The hazard index indicates the likelihood of a flood event, while the vulnerability index assesses potential impacts. These two indexes are combined to form an overall flood risk index. Subsequently, this index is utilized to develop a web-based spatial decision support system (SDSS), enabling businesses and stakeholders to visualize and analyze flood risk information, aiding them in making well-informed decisions regarding flood mitigation and adaptation measures. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers and authorities in the Kelani River basin, fostering resilience and sustainable development in the region. Though the study acknowledges limitations related to data availability and generalization to other regions, it serves as a valuable foundation for the development of more comprehensive and effective flood risk management frameworks in the Kelani River basin and beyond.