Singapore can help steer Asia out of deep water

THE torrential rains and floods that immersed various parts of the world in the past months have had devastating effects: many lost their lives; homes and properties were destroyed; and critical infrastructure such as transport came to a halt. These carry a clear warning about climate change, and unprepared cities are at highest risk of its detrimental outcomes.

Cities in Asia should take note. Various studies have found, while floods are a global phenomenon, the economic impact of floods is greater in Asia than anywhere else. This makes it key for the region's countries to commit to predicting, preventing and mitigating floods, an area where Singapore can play a leading role, given its access to tech, startups and venture capital.

Asia to feel greatest impact of floods