The IPA ADRION project URBANFLOODS (Promoting Urban Resilience Through an Integrated Advanced Decision Support System for Flood Control) was officially launched on November 5-6, 2024, with a successful Kick-Off Meeting at the University of Western Macedonia (Lead Partner) in Kozani, Greece. Representatives from all URBANFLOODS partners across eight Adriatic – Ionian countries (Greece, Italy, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Albania, North Macedonia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina) attended the event, which was held in a hybrid format.
The meeting opened with institutional greetings from Professor Theodoros Theodoulidis, Rector of the University of Western Macedonia, and Ms. Chatzimanoli-Fourkioti, Deputy Mayor for Tourism of the Municipality of Kozani. Professor Malamati Louta, Vice Rector of the University of Western Macedonia and Project Coordinator, presented the general objectives and expected outcomes of the project, offering a comprehensive overview of the URBANFLOODS structure and vision. Ms. Davorka Zagar participated online as a representative of the Joint Secretariat (JS), addressing key financial management aspects of the project.
Presentations by the project team and all involved partners focused on the scientific context and technical actions to tackle urban flooding events. The aim is to develop an advanced Decision Support System (DSS) that will assist local authorities in flood prevention, management, and mitigation efforts, with special attention to the nine (9) pilot sites across the participating countries. A key highlight of the meeting was the 1st Steering Committee meeting, where selected members were tasked with ensuring efficient project management. The day concluded with a social dinner, offering participants the chance to build stronger relationships and foster collaboration.
On the second day, all partners visited the Ilarionas Hydroelectric Dam and the Greek pilot site, Siopoto Stream. We look forward to the continued success and collaboration of the URBANFLOODS project!
