Everyday Floods: The Wear and Tear of an Abandoned Community".

Today's day was like any other at work, filled with the routines and commitments that are already part of my daily life. However, upon leaving, I was confronted with a reality that I have come to know all too well: the streets in my neighborhood were flooded after a recent rain. This situation no longer surprises anyone here; all it takes is a few drops for the insufficient or non-existent drainage system to be completely overwhelmed. Puddles are not mere obstacles; they represent a major problem that affects the mobility, safety and even the health of residents, who must maneuver through the water and mud to reach our homes.

In addition to the daily inconveniences, this situation generates an emotional toll on the community. Seeing our streets turn into small lakes after each rainfall leaves us with a sense of abandonment and helplessness. Every time this happens, the doors of the houses are surrounded by dirty water, which over time can affect the infrastructure of the houses, in addition to creating an environment prone to the proliferation of mosquitoes and other insects, increasing the risk of disease. Many neighbors have tried to improvise solutions by placing debris or barriers in front of their homes, but without adequate infrastructure, these efforts are only palliative.

It is clear that this affects more than just the image of the community; it directly impacts our quality of life and well-being. The lack of attention to basic problems such as proper stormwater drainage is a constant reminder of the shortcomings we face. Not only do we need urgent solutions, but also a long-term commitment from the authorities to improve living conditions in the neighborhood. Hopefully one day, when we return home, we will find our streets free of standing water, able to walk without fear of sinking in puddles and feeling part of a community where quality of life is a priority.