Strengthening Kaohsiung’s Water Sustainability and Flood Resilience: Mayor Chen Chi-mai Calls for Continued Expansion of Flood Detention Facilities to Advance Sustainable Water[...]

[Kaohsiung News] Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai chaired a municipal administrative meeting on January 6, during which the Water Resources Bureau presented a report on "Major Water Infrastructure Projects for 2025 and 2026." According to the report, during Mayor Chen's tenure, approximately NT$9.2 billion has been invested in improving flood-prone areas and resolving drainage bottlenecks. To date, drainage improvements have been completed in multiple flood-prone districts, and 11 flood detention ponds, including the Guangchang Flood Detention Pond in Nanzih District, have been completed. These facilities have added 1.26 million metric tons of detention capacity, bringing the city's total flood detention capacity to 5.13 million metric tons, effectively reducing flood risks.

The Water Resources Bureau further noted that by 2026, five additional flood detention ponds are expected to be completed, increasing the total number from 26 to 31, with total detention capacity projected to reach 5.78 million metric tons, further strengthening flood mitigation. Mayor Chen instructed the Water Resources Bureau to continue advancing drainage improvement projects, extending from northern to southern Kaohsiung and covering coastal areas as well, to comprehensively enhance the drainage system and build a safer and more resilient city.

The Bureau also reported that the Nanzih and Ciaotou reclaimed water plants are key projects for strengthening industrial water supply resilience. Construction of the Nanzih plant commenced in 2025, while the Ciaotou plant is scheduled to supply 30,000 metric tons of reclaimed water per day in 2026, with expansion to 35,000 metric tons per day in 2027. Mayor Chen emphasized the importance of completing these projects on schedule and to high quality standards to ensure sustainable reclaimed water management. He also directed continued efforts to improve riverbank landscapes and water quality, creating more accessible and enjoyable waterfront spaces for residents.

In preparation for the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, Mayor Chen reminded relevant departments to enhance the appearance of major gateways and connecting roads, with particular attention to landscaping quality, vegetation maintenance, and upkeep of road facilities. He also instructed agencies to strengthen inspections and cleanliness at major scenic areas, while ensuring comprehensive public safety and traffic arrangements.