Bacolod City is set to install trash traps and flood warning level markers in its major waterways as part of the local government’s reinforced flood mitigation efforts.

In a statement yesterday, Mayor Greg Gasataya said the heavy-duty trash traps will be placed in seven priority waterways to intercept waste before it clogs creeks and rivers and affect nearby communities.

“It is a preventive step to strengthen solid waste management and reduce flooding risks,” he said.

The trash traps will be installed in Maupay Creek in Barangay 13, Banago Creek in Barangay Bata, Barangay Banago Bridge No. 2, and Mambulok Creek in Barangay 10.

The other three will be positioned at strategic points along the Lupit River, particularly in Taculing-Hernaez, Singcang-Lupit, and Singcang-Alunan bridges.

Gasataya said by containing debris in specific collection points, the regular clearing and maintenance of rivers will also become faster and more efficient.

“This is part of a broader river rehabilitation program. The city is ramping up desilting in four priority areas, clearing illegal structures that obstruct water flow, and advancing a waste-to-energy initiative to reduce overall waste volume,” he added.

Other initiatives include installing flood warning level markers and conducting desilting operations in various waterways being implemented by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and the City Planning and Development Office.

In a statement, CDRRMO head Dr. Maria Laarni Pornan said “flood mitigation remains central to the city’s development planning.”

“Without these flood control measures, flooding could worsen. As the city develops, it is crucial to plan carefully against flood risks,” she added.

In November last year, Tropical Depression “Verbena” brought massive floods that affected more than half of the city’s 61 barangays after several hours of torrential rains. (PNA)