Alert and prepared
How can Oman prepare for future storms or heavy rains?
Rafeeq Thonse
Shopkeeper
Storm water drainage is needed, especially in Muscat governorate, so that rain and drainage water can be moved out continuously and quickly. The problem of water logging witnessed in many areas – both residential and commercial - can be avoided with such a drainage system.
Jasim Jamil
Private sector employee
There are a variety of emergency management programmes that can help the country prepare for storms and heavy rains. In addition, the Ministry of Housing has to double-check the places where they plan to build houses. Oman has all the facilities and systems to face such natural disaster, and rescue teams are always active and ready to engage and respond to emergencies.
Ahmed Khalaf Khalfan
Private sector employee
Authorities must not permit buildings near wadis. Such areas should be demarcated and turned into tourist sites for people to enjoy when it is not raining. Further, there must be proper measures to ensure drains and water outlets are not clogged and more culverts must be constructed.
Mohan Anandan
Bank employee
A well equipped and trained natural disaster management team, duly supported by a comprehensive plan, with frequent drills to ensure that the team’s skills and preparedness are current, will go a long way in preparing for natural disasters like storms or heavy rains. Climate change and unpredictable seasons must also be factored into the infrastructural development plans.
Yusuf Khan
Senior manager
There has to be a two-fold approach. Planned evacuation not only of the area which is in the eye of the storm but 100+ km around it, and people’s heightened alertness to natural events. Additionally, people have to avoid any adventure in nature during or after a storm.
Jay Prakash
Private sector employee
Frequent storms and heavy rains are a result of climate change and should not be ignored. The natural rainwater runoff should be used to increase green coverage. People must plant more trees to minimise soil erosion. Big building should not be constructed near the sea or hillside.