Every monsoon water logging becomes a major problem in the capital city. The roads are transformed to small rivers with vehicles sloshing though muddy waters. Some low-lying areas are particularly more likely to be water-logged. This causes endless sufferings for the residents.
Many people have to walk through knee-level or even waist-level water to get to their destination. Water-logging is a big hindrance for productivity as people are prevented from going about their daily activities whenever it rains.
The vehicles on the roads are often damaged as the high levels of water can get inside and destroy important parts. City roads are also damaged by the deluge and leads to cracks and potholes. This ends up costing the city corporations huge amounts of money as every season the roads have to be renewed.
Water-logging causes the drain water and sewage to become mixed with rain water. Many people would come in contact with this unhygienic water which may lead to infections and other serious illnesses. The government has taken up several initiatives to tackle these problems by improving the city’s drainage system, cleaning up pipes, drains, canals, setting up temporary and permanent water pumps.
Water-logging in the capital has long
been neglected and as such has become
a part of daily life for city dwellers
The work of cleaning about 300 kilometer storm pipe drain is underway. Four permanent and 15 temporary water pumps will be used to remove water during heavy rain. The surroundings of the existing canals in project areas will be improved through building embankments and walkways after re-excavating and expanding the water bodies. According to experts, poor drainage system is largely responsible for water-logging in Dhaka city.
Water-logging in the capital has long been neglected and as such has become a part of daily life for city dwellers. It is high time that this problem is addressed and a solution is devised. The government has now promised to solve this issue within the next two years.
Water logging not only reduces productivity but it is also a threat to public health. Hopefully, once the issue is resolved, people will no longer have to suffer inconveniences when it rains.
