The Cotcot River Was Artificially Diverted — A Critical Mistake

The artificial diversion of the Cotcot River, as illuminated by architect Shaun Espina, constitutes a critical error with far-reaching consequences for the surrounding ecosystems and communities. Espina’s analysis, supported by satellite imagery and ground assessments, reveals that the river’s natural flow has been drastically altered, culminating in a constricted floodplain and a hazardous redirection of water. The decision to modify this vital waterway for land reclamation purposes not only disrupted the ecological equilibrium but also precipitated conditions ripe for catastrophic flooding.

The bottleneck created by the diversion exacerbates the river's flow velocity, resulting in heightened hydraulic pressure within the restricted channel, particularly during heavy rainfall. This unnatural constraint forces the river to handle an excessive volume of water, leading to alarming increases in water elevation that threaten adjacent areas with imminent inundation. Furthermore, the structural integrity of the riverbanks faces severe jeopardy; inadequately designed diversions lacking necessary reinforcements heighten the risk of embankment failure.

As Espina warns, the consequences of such impulsive engineering decisions are devastating – they render communities vulnerable to flood surges that can obliterate homes and disrupt lives. The paramount need for rigorous examination and reconsideration of these misguided practices is evident, lest communities continue to bear the brunt of these preventable disasters.