CMWU, in partnership with Oxfam and in cooperation with Gaza Municipality, has begun implementing a project to strengthen early preparedness for the rainy season. The project aims to support the maintenance of wastewater networks and stormwater drainage systems, reduce the risks of water accumulation and flooding in residential areas, densely populated neighborhoods, and displacement camps across Gaza City.
The project includes a range of preventive works and interventions, including the maintenance of wastewater networks and manholes, stormwater drainage systems, and the cleaning and clearing of stormwater channels and culverts. It also involves preparing water flow paths and directing runoff toward drainage points, constructing sandbag barriers to prevent floodwater from reaching tents, protecting areas vulnerable to soil erosion using sandbags, and providing a water pump to remove accumulated water and discharge it into the nearest wastewater manhole. These measures are intended to improve stormwater drainage efficiency, reduce flooding risks, and protect residents, displaced people, and their property.
CMWU teams have begun carrying out preventive works at several locations, including the Mustafa Hafez area (Al-Nour Center), Barcelona neighborhood, and Al-Waheedi area (Al-Tunnel). The interventions are being implemented according to the specific conditions and needs of each site, using the available machinery, equipment, and resources. The works will extend to additional locations across Gaza City based on field priorities and needs.
CMWU and its partners are making intensive efforts to strengthen preparedness for the winter season and reduce the risks of stormwater accumulation and flooding, despite limited resources and shortages of the machinery, equipment, and maintenance materials required. These challenges are compounded by the extensive damage to infrastructure and water and wastewater networks, underscoring the need to intensify preventive interventions to mitigate potential risks and protect residents, displaced people, and displacement shelters.
