Towards Resilient Stormwater Management System. Application of AI-Lawzi Lake Stormwater System

The rapid expansion of urbanization, coupled with inadequate stormwater management practices, has had a significant impact on natural water drainage processes, leading to urban floods in various parts of the world. In the context of climate change, it is expected that the problem will be further exacerbated by an increase in rainfall intensities globally. Consequently, addressing the adverse effects of improper stormwater management and tackling urban waterlogging have become critical concerns in the face of the global challenges associated with implementing sustainable development strategies. This paper explores the issue of urban floods and focuses on the design of a resilient stormwater management system that enhances urban resilience to climate risks. The project centers around the implementation of a demanding stormwater management infrastructure in the Al Lawzi area, which encompasses Bahrain's sole natural lake, “AI Lawzi Lake.” The lake serves as a collection point for stormwater runoff utilizing interconnected open channels and under-road culverts. The methodology involves conducting comprehensive hydrological and hydraulic assessments of the stormwater system to evaluate its capacity and identify any weaknesses. Additionally, an analysis of extreme rainfall scenarios is performed to examine the system's performance under climate change conditions and propose measures for optimizing its effectiveness. The findings of this study provide support for the government's efforts to mitigate floods in the area in alignment with Bahrain 2030's Vision and contribute to achieving a range of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).