Poor drainage system to blame for inundation problem in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, July 17

Different areas in the federal capital city of Kathmandu, including Anamnagar, New Baneshwor, Jamal, Raniban, and Singha Durbar, become waterlogged even during light rainfall. Road traffic was badly affected on Thursday afternoon after these areas were waterlogged following the afternoon downpour. Passengers had to face long traffic delays due to the obstruction.

Though such a problem recurs every year, no long-term solution has been found so far. Spokesperson at the Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited (KUKL), Prakash Kumar Rai, shared that as Maitighar is situated on a downward slope, rainwater accumulates here. He mentioned, “Though the drain pipes of the Maitighar area drain into Tukucha rivulet, the drain water cannot flow easily once the water level in Tukucha rivulet rises during the rainy season.

So this area gets waterlogged every year even in light rain in this season.” “The main problem is with the drainage system. Most of the drainage pipes in these areas are old and narrow. Their capacity is insufficient to handle the rainwater flow,” he added. Although discussions were held for the integrated improvement of the sewerage management system around Maitighar, New Plaza and Singha Durbar areas, a comprehensive plan has not been implemented yet. Rapid urbanisation, lack of a separate system for rainwater outlets, and rivers that have steadily lost their capacity to carry floodwater are major reasons behind inundation in Kathmandu Valley.