Flood management in an urban Area ( A case study of Benin metropolis)

Abstract

In spite of efforts at controlling flood hazards in Benin metropolis, the magnitude of flood problem have more than doubled in recent years. A critical review of some recorded cases of flooding coupled with the analysis of the causes and effects of flood on properties and human population was done. Data were collected from the Ministry of Environment and Public Utilities, Hi-tech Construction Company and personal interaction with effected resident local authorities workers, including Engineers of contracting companies on site.

Result from this study shows that illegal disposal of refuse on drainage channels, high intensity of rainfall, poor drainage system, poor construction of roads and building of houses on stream channels and  non implementation of strict town planning laws were identified as the causes of flooding in the Benin  Metropolis. The study recommends that good road construction works, controlled dump sites and proper town planning policies and methods should be adhere to in the Benin metropolis to reduce the effect of flood.

Keywords: flood management, culvert, flowrate  Gutters and stream channels