If you’ve ever seen flooded streets after heavy rains, you probably already understand why drainage systems are important. Drainage systems are designed to drain water quickly so that they do not cause inundation on the road, disrupt traffic, and even damage the surrounding roads and buildings. In order to maintain its maximum function, this drainage system must be regularly checked and maintained. Without routine and regular maintenance, the drainage system can experience serious problems that result in flooding, infrastructure damage, and safety risks. Let’s discuss in more detail why the maintenance of the drainage system is so important especially in the UAE.
Major Challenges in Drainage Maintenance
Some of the main challenges in maintaining drainage systems are:
1. Dirt and garbage
Dust and sand from the desert that are carried by the wind then enter the drainage channel. When it rains, this dust and sand turns into mud which over time forms sedimentation and eventually clogs the channel. Garbage is also a big problem. Even if you don’t throw it directly into the canal, but on the street, for example, the garbage will be carried away by rainwater and enter the canal.
Therefore, it is important to clean up sedimentation and garbage that clogs the channel and always dispose of garbage in the trash bin.
2. Material damage due to corrosion
Drainage components made of metal are susceptible to corrosion due to hot weather and high humidity. Rusty materials over time will make the channel leak or not function optimally. Therefore, regular inspections of drainage channel components are very important so that they can be repaired or replaced immediately if something is damaged.
3. High infrastructure load
Major cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to grow rapidly. The infrastructure built to support this development certainly adds to the burden on the existing drainage system. With the increase in population and buildings, drainage channels must also be upgraded to adjust their capacity. If not done, the drainage channel will be overwhelmed when it rains.
4. Unpredictable weather
Although the UAE is a desert country, extreme weather such as heavy rains and sandstorms are also quite frequent. Drainage maintenance must include readiness to deal with this uncertain weather in the UAE, so that when rain comes, drainage channels are ready to accommodate and drain water smoothly.
How is Routine Maintenance of Drainage Systems Done?
Maintenance is not only carried out when the rainy season approaches, but throughout the year so that drainage channels are ready to face extreme conditions whenever they occur. Here are some routine maintenance steps that are generally carried out:
1. Maintenance of drainage channels and covers
One of the main works in drainage maintenance is cleaning the channel and its cover (gratings). This cleaning helps remove any accumulated garbage, sand, and other debris. Cleaning officers routinely monitor and clean drainage areas in locations prone to blockages.
2. Visual inspection
Visual inspections are carried out to monitor the physical condition of the drainage, whether there are any damage, cracks, or signs of corrosion. In some locations, there are also those who have taken advantage of advanced technology such as CCTV cameras to scan and check invisible drainage channels. With this technology, officers can monitor the inside of the channel without having to dig or open buried channels.
3. Repair and replacement of damaged materials
If during the inspection the officer finds a rusty, leaking, or damaged line or pipe, the next step is to repair or replace the material. This is important so that drainage channels remain strong and do not suffer more severe damage when holding large amounts of water.
4. Use of smart drainage technology
Several cities in the UAE have begun to implement smart drainage technology, which is a smart drainage system equipped with sensors to monitor water flow and water level levels in real time. This technology allows maintenance teams to respond more quickly if there is a potential blockage or risk of flooding. So that maintenance can be carried out proactively, reducing the risk of bigger problems.
5. Capacity planning and system development
As the UAE continues to develop, the drainage system must also be adapted to these needs. This involves proper planning of channel capacity as well as the development of new drainage networks in the area under construction. Routine maintenance also adjusts to increasing the capacity of the drainage system to remain effective in the midst of population and infrastructure growth.
Routine Maintenance to Maintain the Smooth Running of the City
The drainage system may not be a part of the city that is often seen, but its role is very important in keeping life running smoothly. Without regular maintenance, these systems can suffer serious problems that have a major impact on safety, comfort, and even the cost of restoring infrastructure.
Drainage maintenance in the UAE is a task that involves regular cleaning, inspection, repairs, and the use of advanced technology. That way, the drainage system can continue to function optimally, be ready to drain water when rain comes, and keep the roads dry and safe.
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