The Problem of a Poor Drainage System During Flood Relief

Water is the most precious natural resource, its existence is one of the reasons for the existence of life, but although water can provide benefits, it can also cause harm to human life, not because of water shortage but because of water abundance, which in turn will lead to a kind of natural disaster. In an increasingly interconnected world, the impact of natural disasters on human lives and infrastructure is a recurring concern. Among these disasters, floods stand out as one of the most widespread and devastating phenomena, often exacerbated by inadequate drainage systems. As urbanization accelerates and climate change introduces new variables, the vulnerabilities posed by poor drainage system become more pronounced. This essay delves into the intricate relationship between floods and inadequate drainage systems, exploring the causes, consequences, and potential solutions that address this critical issue. By examining the intersection of environmental factors, urban planning, and infrastructure development, we uncover the far-reaching implications of poor drainage systems on communities and underscore the pressing need for comprehensive strategies that mitigate flood risks and enhance resilience.

Floods as a Problem for Generations

Floods causes inconvenience and health concerns to individuals. Floods in the Philippines have caused widespread devastation in terms of human lives lost and economic losses. The Philippines has been ranked third in place among countries that are most at risk for disasters, including storms, earthquakes, and floods. According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Philippines is vulnerable to climate change and has experienced extreme weather events and an increased number of cyclones. An average of 20 cyclones has affected the country and flooding has become a major challenge. Floods in cities cause significant disruption to city life and make urban dwellers high at risk. 

Urban flooding is distinct in that it is caused by a lack of drainage in a city. Due to the lack of empty fields for water storage, practically all rainwater must be transported to surface water or the sewage system. When the city sewage system and draining canals do not have the requisite capacity to take away the amount of rain that is falling, flooding can occur. Water may enter the sewage system in one area and then be dumped on the streets in another part of the city. 

According to a report from The Freeman Cebu News last July 7, 2016, Cebu City is a densely-populated city made vulnerable to floods since it is surrounded by mountainous barangays. Rainwater from the sloped areas will flow through the city eventually reaching the sea. According to Engineer Fortunato 'Jun' Sanchez, Jr., MCDCB subcommittee chairman on infrastructure and utilities, the city has a poor existing drainage system. Also, the width of the rivers has been affected by encroaching illegal structures and business establishments. Moreover, secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways Mark Villar emphasizes that the rainfall on July 1, 2016, in Metro Cebu was only 55 millimeters as compared to typhoon Ondoy that was 400 millimeters, yet it has caused massive flooding. The Cebu City Council wants the city's drainage master plan updated by the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW). Furthermore, because it was designed in 2004, or 15 years ago, Engineer Kenneth Carmelita Enriquez described Cebu City's masterplan as 'outdated' and 'useless.'

Poor Drainage System as the Cause for Urban Disaster

The consequence of this condition is very adverse. Several highways in Cebu city experience flooding including a few streets in the downtown area during a strong downpour. A poor drainage system can cause harm to public health. The polluted water in the drainage system may increase erosion and sedimentation.

In addition, drainage often ends up being receptacles for solid waste generated by the community. The filled conduits with trash will decrease the hydraulic capacity of the drainage. Under this situation, the polluted water from urban surfaces will flow into rivers with improper treatment.

The researchers found out that it has been a problem for ages but no further studies or actions have been taken in addressing the issue in the particular area. The existing drainage system at Sanciangko Street is ineffective, causing water to overflow whenever it rains. Instead of being drained, the water quickly accumulates, causing floods.

In this study, the researchers aim to address the flooding at Sanciangko Street, Cebu City, by proposing a new drainage system that would lessen the vulnerabilities and risk of flood to the community. The lack of a drainage system harms infrastructures, business establishments, among people, and the students of the University of Cebu-Main, who often encounter this problem.  Conducting this study would entail investigating and addressing urban flooding. 

Lastly, the researcher will present a detailed design plan for the new drainage system and its cost estimate. Through this study, the researchers would be able to find solutions to ease the lives of the people living and near Sanciangko Street. 

Conclusion

The drainage system plays a vital role in mitigating floods. One of the crucial causes of drainage problems is the poor waste management habits of the people that can lead to flooding, resulting in property loss, destroying the environment, and some people are forced to relocate to escape floodwaters. A sustainable drainage system will promote urban development and mitigate flood occurrences.  

References

1. Chow, V. T. (2010). Handbook of applied hydrology. McGraw-Hill Education.

2. Merz, B., & Blöschl, G. (2004). Flood frequency hydrology: 3. Synthetic flood hydrology. Journal of Hydrology, 288(1-2), 148-162.

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3. Ashley, S. T., & Ashley, W. S. (2008). Flood fatalities in the United States. Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology, 47(3), 805-818.