QUEZON CITY — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has intensified its flood mitigation efforts to ensure the safety and convenience of Metro Manila residents, motorists and commuters amid the coming rainy season.
In a press briefing, MMDA Acting Chairperson Atty. Don Artes outlined a series of strategic measures and infrastructure projects aimed at addressing the perennial flooding problems that plague the metropolis during heavy thunderstorms.
To combat the flooding along key thoroughfares, the MMDA has constructed three new pumping stations specifically targeting areas along Taft Avenue, UN Avenue, and Malate in Manila. These stations are expected to significantly alleviate the flooding issues that disrupt daily life and commerce in these critical zones.
Atty. Artes emphasized that, should these pumping stations prove insufficient during extreme weather events, the MMDA has coordinated with relevant authorities to open the floodgates of the sewerage treatment plant in Manila Bay.
This contingency measure will allow floodwaters to flow freely into the bay, ensuring rapid recession of floodwaters in the affected areas.
Additionally, the Sunog Apog Pumping Station, currently under construction along San Diego Street in Manila, is anticipated to reduce flooding along the heavily trafficked España Boulevard. This project is part of a broader initiative to improve the city’s flood management infrastructure.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is also contributing to these efforts with plans to construct four new pumping stations in Tatalon, Dona Imelda, and two locations in the Roxas District. These stations are designed to mitigate flooding along Araneta Avenue in Quezon City, a known flood-prone area.
In a pioneering move, a series of detention ponds are proposed to be built inside Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. These ponds will serve as temporary reservoirs for rainwater, reducing the immediate runoff and helping to manage flood levels in the surrounding communities.
To expedite flood relief efforts in Mandaluyong, the MMDA has committed to covering the costs of repairing one of the pumps at a local station. This proactive step aims to swiftly address the flooding in Maysilo Circle, a critical intersection prone to water logging.
In Caloocan City, drainage improvement works are underway to tackle localized flooding issues. This project is part of the MMDA’s broader initiative to enhance the city’s drainage systems.
Currently, all 71 of the MMDA’s pumping stations are fully operational, with 36 undergoing upgrades under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project. These enhancements are expected to boost the efficiency and capacity of the existing flood management infrastructure.
In addition to infrastructure projects, the MMDA continues to conduct regular cleanups of drainage systems, creeks, and other waterways. These routine maintenance activities are essential in preventing blockages that can exacerbate flooding during heavy rains.
Moreover, Chairperson Artes reminds the public to be responsible in their waste disposal. “… iyon pa rin, ‘yung basura is one factor na nagco-contribute sa baha. Kaya nga kami ay patuloy na nanawagan sa ating mga kababayan na sana, sana po itapon natin ‘yung basura natin nang tama. Ang mga LGU naman ay very diligent sa paghahakot basta ilagay lamang nila sa tamang lugar at sa tamang oras ‘yung basura, hahakutin naman po ‘yun kaysa nauuwi sa waterways natin na nagiging cause ng pagbara,” he stated.
(Trash is a factor that contributes to flooding. That’s why we continually appeal to our fellow citizens to please, please dispose of your trash properly. The local government units (LGUs) are very diligent in collecting trash as long as it’s placed in the proper location and at the right time. They will collect it, rather than it ending up in our waterways and causing blockages.)
With these comprehensive measures, the MMDA aims to mitigate the impact of flooding and enhance the quality of life for Metro Manila’s inhabitants, ensuring safer and more efficient commutes even during the heaviest downpours. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
