Thesis Abstract

Urbanization is a global phenomenon that has transformed the landscape of many cities around the world. As more people migrate to urban areas in search of better opportunities, cities face a myriad of challenges that impact the quality of life of their residents. This research project aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the challenges faced by urban centers in different regions, with a focus on identifying common trends and unique issues. The study will analyze data from various cities in different continents to understand the common challenges such as overpopulation, traffic congestion, housing affordability, and environmental degradation. By comparing the experiences of cities in both developed and developing countries, the research will provide valuable insights into the similarities and differences in urban challenges across regions. One of the key aspects of the comparative analysis will be to explore how governance structures and policies influence the way cities address urban challenges. By examining case studies of cities with effective governance mechanisms, the research will highlight best practices that can be adopted by other urban centers to improve their overall sustainability and resilience. Furthermore, the study will also investigate the social implications of urban challenges, such as income inequality, social exclusion, and access to basic services. By examining the impact of these issues on different demographic groups within urban populations, the research aims to shed light on the inequalities that exist within cities and propose solutions to address them. In addition, the project will explore the role of technology and innovation in mitigating urban challenges. By analyzing how cities leverage technology to improve infrastructure, transportation systems, and public services, the research will highlight the potential of innovation in creating more sustainable and livable urban environments. Overall, this comparative analysis will contribute to a better understanding of the complex nature of urban challenges and provide valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders to develop more effective strategies for addressing these issues. By identifying common trends and best practices from cities around the world, the research aims to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration to create more resilient and sustainable urban centers for future generations.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

Hurricane Sandy has delivered another painful reminder that urban areas need to find new ways to confront the increasingly difficult task of flood preparation. A flood occurs “when water runoff from the land exceeds the capacity of the stream channel.

”Flood Risks Excepting the Inner Mountain West and Southern California, a map of vulnerable flood areas picks up almost all major urban areas in the United States.Flood Risks Between 1929 and 2003, urban floods in the United States caused an estimated $171 billion in property damage.Flood Risks Floods have caused the most losses of any natural disaster in the United States.5 Billions of dollars have been invested in flood prevention structures.

But, as “first responders” in the battle to prevent and respond to flood damage, local governments will see urban flood damages rise for four primary reasons. First, federal flood control policy over eighty years has created the illusion that infrastructure and post-disaster relief can provide maximum protection from flood damages. Second, more cost-effective avoidance strategies, such asless intensive flood plain development and restoration, have been undermined by the federal flood insurance program, which has encouraged intense development in river and coastal flood plains instead of redirecting it to less vulnerable areas.

Third, global climate change is projected to produce more intense flood and coastal storm surge events. Fourth, damage prevention responsibility is being de facto devolved to local governments as the federal government and the states, with notable exceptions, are investing less of the scant, available dollars in flood infrastructure construction.Flood Risks