Staff Reporter
Harare residents have voiced their frustration and demanded immediate action from the Harare City Council to improve the drainage system in the Central Business District (CBD) after heavy rains on Wednesday, 13 September 2024, left several streets submerged, disrupting traffic and movement for pedestrians.
Key roads such as Julius Nyerere Way, Rezende Street, and Chinhoyi Street were submerged in water creating significant challenges for both motorists and pedestrians.
The National Chairman of the Zimbabwe National Organization of Associations and Residents Trusts (ZNOART), Shalvar Chikomba, called on the Harare City Council to urgently improve the drainage system in the CBD.
Chikomba emphasized that the council must prioritize infrastructure maintenance to prevent recurring flooding and ensure public safety.
“It is the responsibility of the Harare City Council to provide services that make life easier and safer for residents. The poor drainage system, which led to severe flooding, highlights a lack of adequate maintenance. The council must act now to upgrade and unblock the drainage system to prevent flooding and protect residents from these disruptions,” Chikomba said.
Residents echoed Chikomba’s concerns, expressing frustration at the council’s continued inaction.
Another resident, Mercy Gwande, a daily commuter, expressed her frustration, saying, "The council has neglected these issues for far too long. We are tired of wading through water every rainy season. Mayor Jacob Mafume and his council need to step up and address this recurring problem."
Similarly, Tatenda Moyo, a resident of Mbare who works in the CBD, stated, "The council's failure to maintain the drainage system is evident. The flooding makes it impossible to get to work on time, and it poses safety risks to everyone. Immediate and long-term solutions are necessary; this can’t keep happening."
Abigail Mutasa pointed out the potential health hazards posed by the poor drainage system.
"Stagnant water creates a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other diseases. We cannot afford to have such health threats due to council incompetence. We demand urgent action," Mutasa urged.
Residents also called on the council to address another risk posed by aging trees in various parts of the city.
"The council must cut down big old trees that pose a danger to both people and vehicles. We have seen branches fall during storms, which can easily cause fatalities," said Hilda Mhizha.
Residents have made it clear that they expect the city’s leadership to act decisively and urgently to prevent further flooding incidents and ensure that public safety and health are safeguarded.
The onus is now on the council to respond to these concerns and demonstrate effective governance.
