Flood Risk Management and River Rehabilitation in Moldova
The project supports the river rehabilitation and urban flood protection of Chişinău’s Bîc River through an advanced hydraulic model, technical studies, and detailed engineering designs. Its goal is to reduce flood risk and enhance water quality across the urban area.
Chişinău increasingly faces hydraulic
challenges driven by rapid urban
development, obstructed drainage networks,
and the absence of an effective
flood early warning system.
Climate change and more frequent extreme weather events further intensify these vulnerabilities, causing significant economic losses
and posing serious risks to public safety.
Our Approach to Urban Flood Protection in Chișinău
The project is inserted in a more general client strategy: improving Chişinău’s citizens quality of living, becoming European Youth Capital in 2025 and regenerating the River Bîc to become an attractive asset for the city and the region.
Idrostudi Team focused on:
Assessment and Integrated Catchment Modelling
- Conducted topographic surveys, geomorphological studies, and periscope inspections of drainage systems.
- Assessed existing flood risk management, drainage infrastructure, and river conditions in Moldova.
- Developed an integrated catchment model to analyse water flow and flood risk.
- Conducted flood risk and hazard assessments to support decision-making.
SuDS Design, River Reprofiling and Flood Control Infrastructure
- Option assessment to mitigate the risk of flooding (short-medium-long term Master Planning)
- Designed river reprofiling interventions to enhance hydraulic efficiency.
- Designed SuDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage System) solutions such as rain gardens and permeable surfaces — a SuDS design approach tailored to urban catchment conditions.
- Provided technical specifications for flood control infrastructure.
Environmental Standards, EBRD Compliance and Construction Management in Moldova
- Collaborated with local authorities and the public to ensure community input in design decisions.
- Conducted training sessions on sustainable flood risk management practices in Moldova.
- Assessed environmental risks and proposed mitigation measures.
- Ensured compliance with EBRD and EU environmental and social standards, as part of an EBRD water project in Moldova.
- Provided engineering support during the construction phase.
- Assisted in reviewing technical queries and approving necessary design changes.
