Phnom Penh Intensifies Drainage System Cleanup to Combat Rainy Season Flooding

Phnom Penh City is intensifying the cleaning and maintenance of its main drainage systems to combat flooding during the upcoming rainy season. The 7 Makara district, located in the heart of the capital and a crucial transportation hub, has been identified as a priority area for these efforts. The operation involves clearing mud and debris from approximately 3.234 kilometers of drainage networks, starting from Street 211 and extending to other major roads like Street 215 and Street 182. The aim is to remove blockages that impede rainwater flow and ensure rapid drainage. Ek Khun Doeun, Deputy Governor of Phnom Penh, inspected the site, acting on behalf of Governor Kuong Sreng. He instructed the work teams to promptly identify and clear areas prone to blockages and waste accumulation. The initiative also includes checking and improving the connectivity of the drainage system to facilitate smooth water flow. The city is also assessing the operational status of recently completed pumping stations to enhance drainage capacity. Furthermore, the municipality is appealing to residents to refrain from placing construction materials on or blocking drainage covers with soil. This drainage system cleanup is part of a broader flood mitigation program implemented across several key districts in Phnom Penh, particularly the five central districts, including Don Penh, Chamkar Mon, and 7 Makara. The city aims to minimize damage to homes and infrastructure during the monsoon season through these comprehensive measures. Source: AKP Khmer