MARTIN MAWAYA
GWERU–Residents have raised alarm over the continued clogging of drainage systems across the City of Gweru, blaming poor waste disposal habits for worsening flooding and sanitation challenges.
Speaking during a Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association (GRRA) engagement meeting this week, Ward 10 resident Pepukai Mawere said irresponsible dumping of garbage into drains was undermining efforts by the Gweru City Council (GCC) to keep the city clean.
“Some residents are throwing litter into the drains, which causes blockages and flooding whenever it rains. This not only damages infrastructure but also poses serious health risks,” said Mawere.
Ward 13 resident Pastor Tavengwa Makore commended the council for improving water supply but noted that households in high-altitude areas still face erratic delivery.
“We’ve seen some progress, but those in elevated areas still go for days without water,” he said.
GRRA programmes manager Fadzi Karenyi urged residents to actively participate in civic programmes and budget consultations, noting that effective service delivery depends on collective responsibility.
“Your participation and contributions to city affairs determine the level of service we can all receive. We also need to strike a balance between our needs and the city’s budget,” Karenyi said, adding that attendance at this year’s budget consultations had improved compared to previous years.
However, residents from Nashville and Northlea, bemoaned the absence of culverts and proper drainage infrastructure, saying the situation had left their suburbs prone to flooding.
Urban planning experts have warned that clogged drains can result in severe flooding, road damage, and the spread of waterborne diseases.
Environmentalists have since called on residents to stop dumping litter into drainage systems and urged council authorities to routinely clean and maintain storm water channels.
They said sustainable service delivery requires stronger community participation, stricter enforcement of environmental by-laws, and consistent maintenance to restore the city’s image.
The local authority has, in recent months, rolled out several service delivery initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and public services, including clearing of culverts and drainage channels.
