“Living with floods” – an age-old practice in many parts of Asia – recognizes that while it is not possible to completely eliminate floods, their negative impacts can be reduced through an understanding of flood risks, by working towards modifying this risk-generation process in a holistic manner and by minimizing settlement in areas subject to flooding. This strategy, in conjunction with non-structural measures such as land use planning, flood forecasting and warning and emergency planning, can help keep the adverse impact on the environment to a lower level. The concept of “living with floods”, rather than fighting them, is the most effective way of preserving ecosystems. (WMO 2006a)