WILLEMSTAD - Following the heavy rainfall last Saturday and the subsequent damage, significant debate has arisen in Curaçao about how such damage can be prevented in the future. Many residents are questioning the causes of the floods and erosion, indicating a lack of understanding of the island's drainage system.
In Curaçao, rainwater is drained to the sea through natural channels, known as "rooien." This system is distributed along a line connecting the highest points of the island, from the south to the north coast. On both sides of this watershed, the rooien drain rainwater to the sea. This process often leads to erosion along the coast, with the misconception that the sea forms the bays and inlets. In reality, it is the rooien that create these landscape elements.
The role of dams in this natural drainage system is crucial, as fresh water is scarce on the island. Historically, dams were built in the rooien to retain rainwater and infiltrate it into the soil, replenishing groundwater levels. These dams are not only essential for water conservation but also for flood control and erosion management.
However, in recent years, many of these dams have been sacrificed for development, hindering the natural drainage of rainwater and increasing the risk of damage. The remaining dams are therefore under greater pressure, jeopardizing the stability of the system.
This became painfully clear last Saturday when the dams could not manage the excess water, causing areas behind the dams to flood. This led to the mistaken assumption that the dams had broken, when in fact they were simply overwhelmed by the amount of rainfall.
The construction of structures near rooien, without adequate consideration for draining excess water, is a growing problem. Additionally, increasing urbanization, with more asphalt and concrete, contributes to the reduction of natural infiltration of rainwater into the soil.
With the prediction of further climate warming, leading to heavier rainfall, it becomes even more crucial to protect and restore the island's natural drainage systems. This requires a thorough revision of both existing and planned development.
Ir. Paul Stokkermans, expert in agricultural engineering and former director of Carmabi, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to increase Curaçao's resilience to water-related damage. This includes not only the maintenance and restoration of dams but also a critical assessment of the impact of human activity on the natural drainage system.
If the laws of nature continue to be ignored, warns Stokkermans, the problems will only increase.