Floods continue to be one of the most severe annual disasters, particularly in Asia during the last few years, in spite of the previous regional and national efforts. According to a recent study by the United Nations, about 44 per cent of the flood disasters that occurred in the world during the period 1987-1996 affected Asia. These disasters in the region claimed some 228,000 lives and resulted in damage of US$ 136 billion to the Asian economy. In view of the continuing aggravation of flood disasters in the region, ESCAP prepared a project to further promote regional cooperation in flood control and management in Asia and the Pacific. The project was based on the concept of regional cooperation as a process in which the framework requires to be regularly strengthened.

The publication also intends to be a reference for planners and professionals working in other fields but having to work on development projects related to flood control and management. Hopefully, the publication will contribute to strengthening regional cooperation in this area.