By Josephine Sesay

With the onset of the rainy season fast approaching, concerns are mounting across Freetown over blocked drainage systems, as clogged gutters threaten to trigger flooding in several communities.

Across the city, many gutters remain choked with plastic waste, sand, and other debris, restricting the natural flow of water. Despite repeated public warnings, indiscriminate dumping of refuse continues, heightening the risk of floods once heavy rains begin.

Environmental and sanitation experts warn that without urgent intervention, the consequences could be severe, particularly in low-lying and densely populated areas.

“If these gutters are not cleared, flooding is almost certain,” said Alhaji Conteh, an environmental health officer. “Water must have a free passage. When drains are blocked, it spills over into homes and streets, causing damage and exposing residents to serious health risks.”

In several communities visited, gutters were seen overflowing with waste, with some completely blocked. Residents say the situation has been neglected for too long and fear a repeat of past flooding incidents.

“We see the gutters filled with garbage every day, yet people continue to dump waste there,” said Kadie  Conteh, a resident of a flood-prone area. “When the rains start, it is our homes that will be affected.”

Public health experts caution that flooding often leads to outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.

Authorities have consistently called on residents to take responsibility for proper waste disposal and to participate in regular clean-up exercises. However, enforcement of sanitation regulations remains weak, and compliance has been limited.

“Keeping the city clean is a shared responsibility,” a sanitation official noted. “We are urging all residents to stop dumping waste in gutters and to support efforts aimed at keeping drainage systems clear.”

Urban planners also stress the need for stronger enforcement of sanitation laws, improved waste management systems, and sustained public awareness campaigns to address the root of the problem.

As the rains draw closer, community leaders are calling for immediate action to clear blocked drains and prevent avoidable disasters.

“The warning signs are clear,” said community leader Ibrahim Kamara. “If we fail to act now, we will face serious flooding that could have been prevented.”

With time running out, the state of Freetown’s drainage system remains a critical concern, one that could determine how well the city withstands the coming rains.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 22nd April 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)