In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Natural Hazards Research’, Bereket Ayele Ayda from the Faculty of Water Resources and Irrigation Engineering at Arba Minch University has unveiled alarming insights into urban stormwater management in Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia. The findings underscore the pressing need for improved drainage systems to tackle the escalating challenges posed by surface runoff in rapidly urbanizing areas.
The research, which utilized the Stormwater Management Model (SWMM), revealed that the town’s drainage infrastructure is struggling to cope with increasing runoff, particularly in the Sekela sub-city. Ayda noted, “The rapid increase in surface runoff is primarily attributed to impermeable surfaces and inadequate urban drainage systems. This not only threatens infrastructure but also poses risks to human life.”
Dividing the catchment into 47 sub-catchments based on building blocks and flow direction, the study identified significant flooding at multiple junctions and conduits during a simulated 2-year return period design rainfall. The peak runoff rates, which ranged from 0.07 m³/s to 0.75 m³/s across various return periods, point to a critical need for resizing canals and enhancing drainage structures. As Ayda elaborated, “The areas most affected are those with high imperviousness, where the natural infiltration into the soil is severely limited.”
The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate concerns of flooding and infrastructure damage. For the water, sanitation, and drainage sector, the findings highlight a pivotal opportunity for investment in urban drainage solutions. The analysis not only serves as a wake-up call for local authorities but also presents a clear directive for businesses and stakeholders involved in water management technologies and urban planning. Enhanced drainage systems could mitigate flooding risks, protect investments, and ultimately safeguard communities.
As urbanization continues to accelerate in Arba Minch, the insights from this research could shape future developments in stormwater management strategies across similar regions. The study advocates for a multi-faceted approach to stormwater intervention, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among road protection authorities, decision-makers, and the scientific community.
With the potential for significant commercial impacts, the findings of this study serve as a critical reminder of the need for proactive measures in urban water management. As Ayda concludes, “Adopting comprehensive mitigation measures is essential for minimizing the effects of stormwater, ensuring the safety and resilience of our urban landscapes.”
For further information, you can visit the Faculty of Water Resources and Irrigation Engineering, Water Technology Institute, Arba Minch University.
