Better urban planning needed

Climate crisis consequences: The Dec 8 flash flood in Putrajaya – this is Presint 11, Zon 4A – after just one hour of rain. Rising sea temperatures accelerate evaporation, leading to short-duration but intense rainfall, says CAP. — Screencap from Putrajaya Fire and Rescue Department

THE flash flood in Putrajaya on Dec 8 – caused by an hour of heavy rain that led to water rising in Sungai Anak Gajah – resulted in significant damage, with 20 vehicles submerged. This incident highlights the urgent need to enhance flood mitigation measures and urban infrastructure against climate-induced challenges.

Despite Putrajaya’s reputation as a meticulously planned city with extensive green spaces and a systematic drainage system, just one hour of rain led to severe flooding. This raises critical questions about the adequacy of current urban planning and infrastructure to handle extreme weather.