East Jeddah's Jack Street was inundated Saturday following a light rain because accumulated garbage blocked the drainage pipes, which were constructed following the devastating November 2009 floods. — Courtesy Al-Madinah
Saudi Gazette report
JEDDAH – The municipality in Jeddah has taken steps to protect development and construction projects from floods, Makkah daily reported.
Jeddah Municipality has been implementing projects for new roads and tunnels in the city.
Experts advised precautionary measures were needed to stop flooding catastrophes of the past from repeating themselves, especially as the rainy season was nearing.
Saudi Council of Engineers member Saoud Al-Khadid said the worst thing that could happen in wet weather conditions was the breakdown of pumps used to dry water in equipment and vehicles.
During the implementation of previous projects, a lack of maintenance and emergency planning caused delays and investors had to deal with malfunctions in equipment.
The misconstruction of some bridges and tunnels blocked the sewage system and prevented rain from flowing underground.
Construction companies must take into account the sites they are working in and the potential hazards in them, said Al-Khadid.
He said: “The current municipality projects are mostly located in the city center.
“Therefore, the companies must protect the entire construction site and ensure the maintenance of pumps and the sewage system.”
Engineering professor and project planning expert Abdulatif Nassr said accounting for bad weather is an essential part of project planning.
The municipality's role in such projects, he said, is to act as the supervisory authority to ensure all companies involved are adhering to safety procedures.
Jeddah Mayor Hani Aburas said the municipality plans to start three new bridge construction projects throughout the city within three months.
The municipality is regularly following up the progress of the projects to ensure that everything is progressing according to schedule, he said.
A source from the municipality's supervisory committee said emergency planning is the responsibility of the investors as stated in their contracts.
To facilitate emergency procedures, the municipality ensures constant communication among its branches and investors.
