At a discussion hosted by the Urban Resource Centre (URC), Professor Noman Ahmed and architect Arif Hasan highlighted that poorly designed roads, elevated constructions, and clogged drains have disrupted natural water flows across the city.

Findings presented at the forum revealed that of 34 feeder drains connected to the Mahmoodabad drain, 30 remain blocked, while only four of the 18 main outlets are functional. This has significantly weakened the city’s capacity to drain rainwater during heavy downpours.

Urban planners urged the government to restore natural drainage channels, strictly enforce planning regulations, and prepare emergency teams to mitigate the impact of future monsoon rains.

Published in Masriq TV September 17, 2025