Flood Risk Assessment Workshop in Kriva Palanka Highlights Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Resilience
As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events, cities like Kriva Palanka are facing growing flood risks that require innovative and sustainable responses.
Situated in a mountainous region and shaped by the Kriva Reka river system, Kriva Palanka is particularly exposed to flooding caused by intense rainfall, rapid runoff, and river overflows. Past deforestation, unplanned construction near riverbanks, and limited flood protection infrastructure have further increased vulnerability. Climate change is exacerbating these pressures, making it clear that conventional grey infrastructure alone is not sufficient to address flood risks in a sustainable way.
Nature-Based Solutions as a Core Part of Flood Risk Management
The workshop presented the findings of the Flood Risk Assessment for Kriva Palanka, examining flood hazards, exposure, and vulnerability across the area of interest. Beyond identifying risk hotspots, the assessment placed a strong emphasis on nature-based solutions as cost-effective and climate-resilient measures that work with natural processes rather than against them.
Participants were introduced to a longlist of potential intervention measures, including riverbank restoration, re-naturalisation of river corridors, improved management of green spaces, erosion control through vegetation, and measures to enhance water retention upstream. These solutions not only reduce flood risks, but also support biodiversity, improve water quality, and enhance the quality of life in urban and peri-urban areas.
Linking Data, Planning, and Green Infrastructure
The workshop showcased how hydrological analyses, historical flood data, and vulnerability mapping can inform the design and prioritisation of nature-based solutions. By identifying where water accumulates, how it flows through the landscape, and which areas are most exposed, the assessment provides a strong evidence base for integrating green infrastructure into urban planning and flood protection strategies.
Discussions focused on how nature-based solutions can complement structural measures, reduce pressure on existing infrastructure, and offer long-term benefits under changing climate conditions. Particular attention was given to aligning proposed measures with local planning processes and national and EU policy frameworks, including the principles of the EU Floods Directive and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.
Strong Institutional Engagement
Opening remarks were delivered by Mr Björn Gabriel, Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Representation in North Macedonia, Mr Sashko Mitovski, Mayor of the Municipality of Kriva Palanka and Ms. Susanne Kempf, Advisor at GIZ.
The workshop brought together representatives from the Municipality of Kriva Palanka, urban planning and environmental departments, the Regional Crisis Management Centre, the Ministry of Agriculture, Directorate for rescue and protection, Inspectorate for Environment, and the Public Enterprise “Water Economy”. Their engagement underlined the shared responsibility for advancing integrated, nature-based approaches to flood risk management.
From Assessment to Implementation
Beyond presenting technical findings, the workshop provided space for discussion, feedback, and coordination among institutions. The insights gathered will feed into the completion of the Flood Risk Assessment and Management Report for Kriva Palanka and support the prioritisation of investment options, with nature-based solutions playing a central role.
Effective flood risk management depends not only on infrastructure, but also on public awareness, community involvement, and cross-sector coordination. By promoting nature-based solutions, Kriva Palanka can reduce flood risks while creating greener, healthier, and more resilient urban environments.
Contributing to Climate-Resilient Cities in the Western Balkans
The Flood Risk Assessment for Kriva Palanka forms part of broader efforts to support climate-resilient urban development in the Western Balkans. By advancing nature-based solutions and integrating them into planning and investment decisions, the initiative contributes to safer communities, stronger national climate adaptation capacities, and shared European and German objectives for sustainable and resilient cities.
These activities are supported by the City Climate Finance Gap Fund (“Gap Fund”), a partnership between the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and Luxembourg’s Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Sustainable Development. Implementors are the European Investment Bank (EIB) in partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the World Bank (WB).
