2019
This is an Entry to the Government Best Practice Recognition Awards
Title
Bombastik Pumping Stations
Organization
City Government of Navotas
Best practice Focus Area(s)
Leadership, Customer and citizen focus
Summary
One of the major problems that the City of Navotas continuously encounters is flooding. As a solution, the City Government implemented the “Bombastik Pumping Station” project. The LGU initiated the construction of the river wall to prevent overflowing of the river, as well as floodgates to control the water flow through drainage canals. Consequently, the first Bombastik pumping stations were built and operated. Utilizing a mechanically-operated system that effectively siphons the floodwater from roads and low-lying areas.
Background and Problem
Navotas City lies below sea level, so flooding is a recurring problem during high tide and rainy season particularly when typhoons hit the city. This condition is even aggravated by a geological phenomenon wherein the city sinks 1-2 centimeters each year. These natural traits expose the city to massive perennial flooding with or without rain. Floodwaters consistently enter the houses and properties of many Navotas. Roads are impassable, resulting in frequent and long-lasting class suspensions. Businesses and other work establishments are also affected, economic growth and development of the city were hampered. The worst part about this is that the citizens are susceptible to waterborne diseases such as dengue, leptospirosis, diarrhea, dysentery, and many others. The objective of the program is to solve the perennial problem of the city regarding floods and to eradicate its harmful effects on the health of the people, the environment, and the economy of the city.
Solution and Impact
By constructing the river wall and floodgates; round a certain affected area, the flow of water to and from the river was controlled. During the rainy season, floodgates are closed, and the Bombastik Pumping Stations discharges the water from roads and low-lying areas unto the river.
Since the construction of the very first Bombastik Pumping Station back in 2003, through the continuous building of additional pumping stations, floods were radically reduced. Businesses are continuously thriving, greatly helping in the economic growth of the city. More importantly, health cases related to water-borne diseases significantly decreased.
When the people witnessed and experienced the effectiveness of the project first-hand, they were encouraged to participate and contribute to the program. Residents within the vicinity of pumping stations are eager to be of help when it comes to maintaining the cleanliness of the community, especially the canals and esteros that are connected to the pumping stations. Even the barangay officials participated in the program by helping with information dissemination, strictly implementing ordinances to maintain cleanliness, making them more watchful in their areas of responsibility, collectively inspiring the success of the project.
Milestones
- Radically reduced flooding from 44 percent of one calendar year to 2.7% (CDRRMO)
- Reduce health cases related to water-borne diseases
- Significantly supporting the economic growth of th1! City