DPWH conducts flood mitigation study in Tacloban, nearby town

TACLOBAN CITY, Feb. 18 (PNA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways' (DPWH) regional office here has initiated a feasibility study to curb flooding in this city and nearby Palo town.

DPWH-Eastern Visayas assistant regional director Virgilio Eduarte said the recurring problem of flooding during heavy rains has prompted the department to find a sustainable solution.

“We expect relief from persistent flooding in low-lying areas as soon as we carry out a comprehensive flood-risk management plan," Eduarte told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

The study kicked off this month and will be completed after three months.

"After completion of the flood study, we will request funding from the central office," Eduarte said.

The city engineering office has identified the Senator Enage St., T. Claudio St., Jerolan Highway, Maharlika Highway, National Housing Authority bunkhouses area, Mahayahay Creek, V&G Subdivision, Caibaan, Kalipayan, Lopez Jaena St., and Utap Zone 5 as flood-prone areas.

"Floods occur when ponds, lakes, riverbeds, soil, and vegetation cannot absorb all the water," explained engineer Virgilio Concepcion, chief of the local engineering office's maintenance division.

Clogged drainage due to improper waste disposal also triggers flooding, according to Concepcion.

A village official meanwhile welcomed the study and urged the central government to immediately implement the flood mitigation plan.

"Continuous heavy rains always cause inundation in our village with waist-deep floodwaters and making our streets impassable to vehicles," said Mario Banoyo, village chief of T. Claudio St.

The official suggested that the city government and the DPWH take measures to curb the problem because it disrupts economic activities. (PNA) 

CVL/SQM/Franchette May M. Tolibas (OJT)