EDITORIAL - A splash of dirty water

For those who think the city has licked the problem of flooding, the truth hit them in the face like a splash of cold water. But in this case, more like a splash of dirty water. And not just in the face too, but in the legs, feet, and arms as well.

Heavy rainfall the other day led to massive flooding in different parts of the city including the downtown area. Streets were turned into rivers, leaving many commuters stranded. In settlements near rivers, residents quickly evacuated as the waters rose and flooded communities, turning narrow passageways into waterways.

It is quite a miracle no one was swept away and died as a result of the floods. In fact we saw quite the opposite; people, especially children, playing, frolicking and even swimming in the dirty, brackish water.

While these scenes have become familiar, this should stop being the case. It’s no longer just a matter of water destroying properties or sweeping people away. There are health risks that should be considered now.

Remember that just last month the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said the Guadalupe, Butuanon, Mahiga, Lahug, Kinalumsan, and Bulacao rivers, as well as the Estero de Parian all have alarming levels of fecal coliform. It’s usually from these rivers where the floodwaters come.

Someone infected with fecal coliform may suffer only severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting, but there is always the risk of possible outbreaks of disease.

As we said earlier, a solution to the flooding problem needs to be found soon. And long-term solutions at that.

It’s good that Mayor Michael Rama has announced that his administration will prioritize flooding for now. He can’t achieve that vision of Cebu becoming like Singapore if major parts of the city get inundated whenever a heavy downpour occurs.

We urge him to get his people and plans moving as soon as possible. Because right now while Cebu City may not be like Singapore, many parts of it become like Singapore bay when the rains start.