MMDA Seeks PhP 22B Loan For Improving Flood Mitigation

MANILA: It seems like MMDA does not want to leave any loophole in battling against the floods. A few days back, MMDA issued a list of all the flood prone areas in the country and now it is gearing up to improve the flood mitigation with a financial assistance from the World Bank. The particular initiative by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is in accordance with the President Duterte’s State of the Nation Address, which was oriented towards strong focus towards resolving the problem of flood water.

The talks have been already started between the World Band and the government regarding a PhP 22 billion loan, told by MMDA OIC Emerson Carlos. The particular program will focus on improving the drainage systems and clear waterways, along with upgrading the existing pumping stations and relocation of squatters. All these steps will help in an easy evacuation of water in heavy rains.

This is not the only step which has been taken by the MMDA to improve flood mitigation, in 2009, MMDA planned to install flood warning system procured using a Japanese loan of PhP 1.1 billion but due to the high maintenance cost of the benefits, the project was called off. This time, MMDA plans to rehabilitate 38 pumping stations and will set up 20 more to enhance the capability of the overall system. From the 20 new stations, at least 12 or 13 will be set up in Quezon City looking at the present condition. From the remaining, 3 will be installed in Muntinlupa, 1 each in Mandaluyong and Taguig and 2 in Valenzuela.

According to Carlos, the pumping stations have helped in reducing the flooding conditions to a great extent and more pumping stations can help in further improving the overall condition of the cities. At present, the MMDA has 54 pumping stations, working to clear 80 to 90 mm water per hour and more pumping stations might prove out to be a complete solution to the flood conditions. MMDA has taken various steps to fight against one of the biggest problems of the Philippines and the aim is not just restricted to install more pumping stations in the country but has also planned scheduled maintenance service of the existing pumping stations.

In addition to this, regular cleaning of canals, waterways and drains have been also scheduled to ensure that water clogging does not take place during heavy rains. Along with all the measures adopted, if MMDA is able to clock the deal with the World Bank then the country might get a permanent solution to its one of the biggest problems in an effective manner. Let’s us wait for the final verdict of the talks between the MMDA and the World Bank.

We would also love to hear your suggestions in the comment box about how the authorities and local people can join hands to resolve the flood mitigation in the Philippines.