Flooding in Harare's CBD highlights need for improved drainage systems

Heavy rains in Harare this week led to significant flooding in parts of the Central Business District (CBD) due to blocked storm drains, creating difficulties for pedestrians and motorists navigating the city's streets.

The flooding was most noticeable at key intersections including Sir Seretse Khama Street and Robson Manyika Avenue, as well as Robert Mugabe Road and Julius Nyerere Way, where large puddles of stagnant water hindered traffic flow and pedestrian movement.

One frustrated pedestrian, Mr. Moses Mandizvidza, shared his ordeal after being drenched by water splashed from a passing bus. "If the drains were functioning properly, this incident would not have happened. As I was crossing the road, I got splashed with water from the stagnant pools. If the city council had fixed the drains, this would not have occurred. My clothes are dirty and wet, how can I board a commuter in this state? The council should take action on the storm drains," he said.

Commuters also faced challenges as many reported being late for work, while others struggled to find their way home due to the flooded streets. Mr. Ticklas Mugadza, a local commuter, highlighted the broader impact, saying, "Many people were delayed today because of the flooding. It's not just about getting to work, it's about the overall inefficiency of the city's infrastructure."

The flooding not only affected daily commutes but also disrupted local businesses. Ms. Providence Man'ena, a shop owner near one of the flooded intersections, expressed concern over the impact on her sales. "The water is everywhere, making it impossible for customers to reach my shop. We need better drainage to handle runoff water. This is becoming a regular problem," she said.

Traffic was another casualty of the flooding, with many motorists struggling to navigate through the waterlogged streets. Some faced additional challenges when attempting to park in areas where potholes had filled with water, particularly along Robson Manyika Avenue near Sir Seretse Khama Street.

Harare City Council spokesperson, Mr. Stanley Gama, acknowledged the ongoing drainage issues in the city, particularly in the CBD. "We have been attending to the blocked drains for the past three months," he said. "The Central Business District is too large, and sometimes we are unaware of these issues. However, when people report them, we usually resolve the problems as soon as possible."

Despite these assurances, the repeated flooding in the city underscores the pressing need for Harare to invest in long-term solutions to its stormwater drainage problems, which have continued to hinder smooth mobility and business operations. As the rains persist, residents and business owners alike are calling for urgent improvements to the city's infrastructure to prevent further disruptions.