HARARE City Council has directed residents with “nothing to do in town” to leave the central business district (CBD) “before dark” to avoid flash flooding and worsening traffic congestion as the capital continues to experience heavy rains that have overwhelmed the city’s ageing drainage infrastructure.
The warning comes amid growing concern over rising flood incidents in low-lying suburbs and mounting pressure on the city’s ageing infrastructure, which has been severely compromised by years of neglect, vandalism and the destruction of wetlands.
“All we are saying is that if you have nothing to do in town towards end of day, it’s advisable to leave early before it gets dark,” said City of Harare spokesperson Mr Stanley Gama.
In a statement yesterday, Acting Town Clerk Engineer Phakamile Mabhena Moyo said the city was receiving daily reports of flash flooding, particularly in Mbare, Highfield, Waterfalls, Warren Park, Budiriro and Glen Norah.
“Harare continues to receive heavy rains on a daily basis. The City is receiving reports of flash floods in low-lying areas, with most affected parts being Mbare, Highfield, Waterfalls, Warren Park, Budiriro and Glen Norah,” said Eng Moyo.
He said the local authority, working with the Department of Civil Protection, had activated emergency response systems and was urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant.
“The City of Harare, working closely with the Civil Protection Unit, is advising all residents and property owners in low-lying areas to track weather alerts daily, take heed of possible flood alerts, be on watch for flooding and take appropriate action to avoid risks,” she said.
Motorists have also been urged to exercise caution on flooded roads, avoid parking under trees and help keep drains clear.
“Residents are advised to drive cautiously, not to park vehicles under trees, avoid throwing litter in the drainage system and assist the city in deblocking drains in front of their properties,” Eng Moyo said.
To ease traffic congestion worsened by flooded roads and traffic light failures, council has encouraged motorists to adjust travelling times and leave the CBD early.
“To avoid congestion due to rains, we encourage motorists to adjust travelling times and leave the CBD early.”
Critics have described the council’s directive to leave the CBD early as absurd, arguing it shifts the responsibility onto residents rather than addressing the underlying issues of failing drainage systems and unchecked urban planning. – Herald
