In many Indian cities, prolonged flooding is observed after rainfall; however, in the US, streets dry up within minutes after a heavy downpour. Gudjan Devra, an Indian resident of Chicago, demonstrated a video explaining that the reason for this phenomenon is the thoughtful design of roads, storm drainage systems, and underground pipe networks.
Mechanism for diverting rainwater
According to the video material, most American roads are designed with a slight slope. This prevents rainwater from pooling on the surface, allowing it to naturally flow towards the curbs. Storm drains are installed at regular intervals on these curbs. As soon as the water enters these drains, it is immediately directed into the underground pipe system, which prevents prolonged water accumulation even after intense precipitation.
Roof water collection system
Gudjan also noted that almost every house in America has downspouts on the roof. These pipes collect rainwater, which is either connected directly to the underground drainage system or first flows onto the road before entering the storm drains and underground pipes.
