Narok: The County Government of Narok is expanding and strengthening its stormwater drainage systems in flood-prone areas of the region to avert loss of lives and property experienced during rainy seasons.
According to Kenya News Agency, Eng. Bernard Ng’eno, attached to the County’s Public Works and Housing Department, stated they were also exploring flood-resilient urban planning and climate change development within Narok Town by using permeable pavements and green spaces to absorb water. Eng. Ng’eno affirmed the County’s administration was committed to effective urban management and planning to prevent recurring challenges such as floods. He added that among the long-term strategies embraced were environmental conservation, stricter land use regulations, community-based disaster risk mapping, and enhanced infrastructure such as flood-resistant roads.
Addressing the media in his office to respond to concerns raised by a section of residents over clogged drainages and burst sewers in some parts of Narok Town, the Engineer noted that in partnership with the State Department of Urban Development and Housing, they had constructed two major stormwater drainage systems expected to avert flooding. As the town continues to expand rapidly, Ng’eno conceded that the strain on its infrastructure has become increasingly evident, particularly during the rainy seasons.
The drainage system in Narok comprises a network of open channels, culverts, stormwater drains, and sewage systems designed to manage rainwater runoff and wastewater. One of the primary challenges is inadequate maintenance. Due to limited resources and capacity, many drainage channels become clogged with solid waste, silt, and debris, impeding the flow of water. Additionally, informal settlements, which lack proper sanitation facilities, often dispose of waste directly into the drainage system, exacerbating blockages and contaminating waterways.
Eng. Ng’eno indicated that rapid urbanisation and informal construction exacerbate the strain on the drainage infrastructure. He added that as new buildings and roads are constructed without proper planning and adherence to regulations, they disrupt natural drainage patterns and increase surface runoff, leading to localised flooding in low-lying areas.
‘To address these challenges, the County Government in collaboration with various partners and local stakeholders, has initiated various projects aimed at improving the drainage system in Narok. These efforts include infrastructure upgrades, such as the construction of new drainage channels, rehabilitation of existing ones, and installation of trash traps to capture solid waste,’ he stated.
Ng’eno added, ‘Moreover, community engagement and public awareness campaigns are essential components of these initiatives. By educating residents about the importance of proper waste disposal and the impact of urbanisation on drainage systems, we aim to foster a sense of ownership and encourage sustainable practices.’
By prioritizing maintenance, adopting sustainable practices, and involving communities in decision-making processes, the official expressed optimism that Narok can build a more resilient and sustainable urban environment for its residents. He further assured the residents that the procurement process of building a bridge that will connect the Lenana and Majengo areas was complete and construction will start in the coming weeks. Construction of the bridge, he added, will reduce incidences of drowning witnessed during rainy seasons.
On his part, Ishmael Juma from Narok Jamia Mosque appealed to the County Government to fix drainages near the religious facility which were spewing out stormwater and effluent from blocked sewerage systems. Mr. Ishmael observed that for stormwater systems in the town to work appropriately, they must be properly designed, connected to larger channels, and regularly maintained. ‘When drains clog with soil, plastic waste, stones, leaves, and debris, water has nowhere to go, leading to flooding. It pools on the nearest flat surface, which is often roads, homes, markets, and footpaths,’ he stated.
He noted that the County Government can manage heavy flooding through appropriate drainage design and upgrades, regular cleaning of stormwater drainage systems, strict control of developments that block natural waterways, and integration of green spaces that help absorb surface runoff.