Hanoi's Emergency Flood Control Measures Prove Effective Amidst Heavy Rains

Hanoi's Department of Construction has assessed that emergency flood control measures have shown initial effectiveness in response to the record-breaking heavy rains from September 14-17, caused by a tropical depression combined with a tropical convergence zone. According to the department, areas that previously experienced frequent flooding saw significantly reduced damage this time. The recent downpour saw cumulative rainfall exceeding 600mm in some parts of Hanoi, leading to widespread inundation, particularly in the western and southwestern areas. However, as of 5 PM on September 17, only 10 flooded points were reported within the managed areas, a notable improvement compared to previous rainfall events of similar magnitude. Specifically, areas historically prone to severe flooding, such as Phùng Hưng street (around Chợ Hàng Da market), Tông Đản street, and the intersection of Phan Bội Châu and Lý Thường Kiệt streets, did not experience inundation this time. Furthermore, locations like Võ Chí Công street and the Ciputra urban area, which previously suffered prolonged flooding for several hours during heavy rains, saw significantly improved drainage, with water receding within 30 minutes to 2 hours. The department attributes these positive outcomes to the effectiveness of past flood control projects, particularly the integrated approach of basin-specific measures, coordinated operation of reservoirs, pumping stations, sluice gates, and existing drainage systems. Regarding the flooding at the intersection of Tố Hữu and Lương Thế Vinh streets, the department explained that the continuous, prolonged rainfall overwhelmed the inflow capacity of reservoirs and drainage systems, exceeding their design capacity. Measures such as maximizing pump operations, clearing drainage channels, and implementing traffic diversions were taken, and the flooding was resolved by 2 PM on the same day. To further enhance resilience against increasingly extreme rainfall events, Hanoi's Department of Construction emphasized the continued need for investment in key drainage infrastructure, especially in the western and southwestern parts of the city. Source: VnExpress