Gweru clears storm drains to avert CDB floods

Patrick Chitumba, patrick.chitumba@chronicle.co.zw 

GWERU City Council (GCC) has embarked on a project to clear storm drains in a bid to mitigate the recurring issue of flooding in the central business district (CBD).

The initiative aims to reduce the impact of flash floods that have plagued the city during the rainy season, causing significant damage to businesses and severe traffic congestion. 

Each year, heavy rains overwhelm Gweru’s aging drainage system, resulting in flooded streets and shops. Business owners are left counting their losses, while commuters struggle with traffic congestion caused by submerged roads. The situation is exacerbated by improper waste disposal, which clogs the drainage system and worsens the impact of heavy rainfall.

Gweru’s stormwater drainage system was installed in 1992, a development that initially brought significant relief to CBD residents and commuters. The infrastructure allowed for the efficient flow of rainwater, minimising the challenges associated with the rainy season. However, over the decades, the system has fallen into disrepair due to inconsistent maintenance and increased urbanisation. 

As the city expanded, the drainage system struggled to keep up with growing demand. Improper waste disposal practices, including dumping of cardboard boxes, sacks, and other debris into drains, have further compromised its functionality.

In an interview, Gweru Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko said the maintenance of stormwater drains is a proactive measure to improve drainage and reduce the risk of flooding in the CBD.

“Council is embarking on storm water drain maintenance to prevent future flooding. The maintenance work involves clearing leaves, trash, and sediment from the drains to ensure they function properly and prevent blockages,” he said. 

Clr Chivhoko expressed frustration over the recurring issue of flash floods, saying despite the efforts of the council’s roads engineering team to unclog the drains, blockages remain a persistent problem.

“I appeal to residents to refrain from dumping waste into the drainage system. During the unclogging process, we frequently find discarded items such as cardboard boxes and sacks, which exacerbate the problem,” he said.