España drainage upgrades to start in September, DPWH says

MANILA, Philippines — Motorists must brace for traffic congestion in Manila as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will start drainage rehabilitation works along España Boulevard in September. According to DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, the upgrades aim to provide a long-term solution to perennial flooding in the area that has long affected motorists, students and residents. “We have four cross drains along España for stored rainwater to flow down to the pumping stations, going to the detention basin that we will construct in Bustillos along Earnshaw street,” Dizon said. He said the DPWH would also install larger drainage inlets with trash traps. The drainage system in the area has not been upgraded since the 1950s. Among the areas affected are Extremadura street, A.H. Lacson Avenue and M. Dela Fuente street. The DPWH said it would also elevate some roads along España Boulevard that serve as catch basins for rainwater. The city government of Manila expects the project to extend until December. “To all motorists passing through España, there will be some road works in the coming weeks. It will take a few months, but as they say, relief will also follow,” Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said. He joined Dizon in the inspection. The DPWH and the local government agreed to conduct rehabilitation works around the clock to fast-track completion. – Rainier Allan Ronda