Case study: Mont Cenis Dam- Disaster Risk Management at the Italy-France border

logo of resba project and a picture of the mont cenis dam
Source: Interreg Alcotra

Dam risk management between France and Italy is governed by different legal frameworks. Currently, there is a technical cooperation between practitioners (The commission technique de surveillance) which ensures the safety of the dam. Moreover, since 2018, the political and civil protection authorities of both countries have been working on a bi-national emergency plan that will facilitate cross-border cooperation. 

The RESBA project, a part of the INTERREG V-A Italy-France (ALCOTRA) 2014-2020 cross-border European territorial cooperation program, has introduced an inventive approach to managing risks associated with the Mont Cenis dam. This initiative has resulted in the establishment of a cross-border assessment system designed to assess vulnerability and monitor potential damages. Furthermore, it actively engaged local communities in risk management efforts and raised awareness about the issue. This project stands out as a noteworthy example of best practices by adopting an integrated approach, involving various stakeholders such as civil protection agencies, research laboratories, and local communities. The project covers all stages of risk management, including Additionally, the project leverages new technologies and innovative communication tools (institutional websites) to facilitate collaboration among bi-national actors involved in responding to hazards, ultimately fostering a culture of risk awareness.

The RESBA project underscores the importance of creating resilient communities that can effectively cope with crises. Central to this effort is the provision of information to citizens, the gathering of their input, and active engagement in robust communication. Consequently, there is a critical need to enhance communication channels and information dissemination directed at the general population to raise awareness about risks. 

Tag
Cross-Border Cooperation Flood Management