A comprehensive drainage master plan for the entire National Capital Region (NCR) is now in its final stages, the Metro Manila Council (MMC) announced this week, to provide long-term solutions to the region’s persistent flooding problem.
It is a collaborative effort of all 17 mayors of Metro Manila, in partnership with the MMDA, for the construction of large pumping stations, the establishment of an after-service drainage system, and the implementation of other flood control measures in flood-affected areas.
Most local governments cannot afford the funding to have their flood control projects, which prompted them to ask for help from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the budget.
Waste management is also considered a major obstacle to the already overbearing infrastructure. Mayor Zamora said that no matter how modern the drainage is, if the garbage problem persists in Metro Manila, it will never be addressed.
Based on MMC and MMDA records, an NCR dweller generates an average of one kilogram of trash daily. If it were to be multiplied by the estimated 15 million residents, then the capital region would produce approximately 15 million kilograms of waste every single day, which, naturally, overflows into waterways.
Later this year, the finalized master plan is expected to be presented to national agencies for phased implementation by 2026.
