Heavy rain on Monday, October 9 in Quito caused the collapse of the Viva Route. The intensity, which reached 32 mm in a period of 30 minutes, flooded the road and caused havoc, despite assurances from the Metropolitan Mayor’s office that the waters were released as soon as the force of the rain subsided.

Residents of Quito who circulate along the Ruta Viva watched the collapse of the sewage system and suffered the consequences of the flood.

Ruta Viva collapsed with the rain and part of Tumbaco was flooded

This is a warning for mayors across the country and companies responsible for sewage systems due to the proximity of the rainy season and the El Niño phenomenon.

The website of Quito Informa, the Capital City Council, states that the Metropolitan Public Company for Drinking Water and Sanitation (Epmaps-Agua de Quito) maintains constant monitoring of the sewage systems to avoid water accumulation due to intense rain.

Nevertheless, the first damages were evident, and in addition to traffic problems and damage to vehicles, several accidents were also recorded.

The overturning of the trailer made traffic difficult on Ruta Viva and Av. Simón Bolívar, northeast of Quito

It is necessary to speed up sewage cleaning works in cities and towns, considering not only El Niño but also the fact that the country is on the threshold of the beginning of the rainy season. A few weeks ago, the secretary of risk management, Cristian Torres, estimated that precipitation will occur between October and December and will last until the first months of 2024.

The intensity of the El Niño phenomenon is still unpredictable. However, mayors and prefectures that have not developed emergency plans must speed them up.

The community also plays an important role and must consider that the accumulation of waste in the sewers is part of the problem when it rains. Requiring the presence of technical personnel in advance to inspect sewage systems in neighborhoods and urbanizations is a valid option. (OR)