Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Zimpapers Correspondent
Harare residents are accusing the city council of negligence as flash floods swamp streets and homes following heavy rains, with many labelling the escalating crisis “man-made”.
The Harare City Council issued a red alert on Sunday after intense rainfall led to severe flooding in several suburbs including Mbare, Highfield, Waterfalls, Budiriro and Glen View.
Major roads in the city centre were also inundated, bringing traffic to a standstill leaving both both motorists and pedestrians stranded.
Ironically, some of the worst flooding occurred just outside the council’s own headquarters. Leopold Takawira Road, which runs between Town House and the Department of Works, was transformed into a fast-moving river, with water levels reaching knee-height in places.
In an emergency statement, the council urged residents in low-lying areas to monitor weather alerts and avoid crossing flooded streams. It confirmed it was working with the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) to coordinate responses.
But for many Harare residents, the alert is too little, too late. They argue that blocked drains, inadequate maintenance and poor urban planning have turned seasonal rains into an annual disaster.
“Surely, we haven’t received enough rain to justify this; these are man-made floods,” said Dean Chidavayenzi, a resident from Kuwadzana. “It is ironic that this flooding is happening just a spitting distance from Town House.”
Another resident, Maxwell Kuziva, called for central Government intervention.
“Council has failed; Central Government must chip in. We complained last year, and it seems this has now become a perennial challenge.”
The flooding has also taken a toll on vehicles, with deep potholes filled with water causing damage to suspensions and ball joints, particularly in high-density suburbs.
The Department of Meteorological Services had earlier warned of normal to above-normal rainfall for Harare this season. However, the speed and severity of the flooding have exposed the city’s deteriorating drainage network, leaving many questioning the council’s preparedness and capacity to manage urban infrastructure.
