"Works" and "Municipalities" Affirm Readiness for Immediate Response to Rainwater Accumulation Across Governorates

As part of the ongoing cooperation between the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture to address rainwater accumulation promptly during rainfall across various governorates and implement necessary measures, both ministries have affirmed their readiness to manage water accumulation on main and internal roads. This effort aims to ensure smooth traffic flow across the road network and maintain the functionality of the sewage and rainwater drainage systems.

The Ministry of Works highlighted its continuous efforts in maintaining infrastructure, including cleaning rainwater drainage openings, maintaining rainwater pumping stations across different areas in all governorates, clearing open channels, as well as emptying, and cleaning collection tanks throughout the year. These measures prevent blockages caused by accumulated dust, agricultural waste, and general debris such as paper and plastic bags, which can reduce the efficiency of water drainage when needed. This proactive approach helps minimize potential damage during rainfall.

The ministry also stressed the importance of citizens and residents refraining from opening manhole covers connected to the sewage network at all times, especially during rainfall. Unauthorized openings can lead to street flooding, disrupt traffic flow, and negatively affect the sewage system, resulting in health and environmental hazards.

For its part, the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture reiterated its commitment to enhancing coordination between all relevant departments within the four municipalities and the municipal councils. It emphasized its structured emergency response plan, which includes rain emergency teams deployed to residential areas and internal roads, prioritizing reported cases accordingly. Additionally, the ministry has ensured the readiness of necessary equipment, including tankers and pumps, to manage emergencies effectively.

The ministry also noted its ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure for rainwater management, including removing vegetation from drainage channels, cleaning them, and maintaining water accumulation points in collaboration with the four municipal councils.

It is worth noting that hotlines have been designated for reporting rainwater accumulation:

• Main roads: 17545544

• Internal roads: 80008188