Residents in Puebla have raised alarms about at least three storm drains clogged with asphalt following recent resurfacing work on 7 Sur Street, between 13 and 21 Poniente. The images shared by locals reveal that these drains are partially or fully covered by asphalt, potentially hindering water drainage during heavy rains.

This issue gains importance amid ongoing discussions about the causes of recent flooding in Puebla. The state government has pointed fingers at infrastructure projects from previous administrations, with Governor Alejandro Armenta urging the Puebla City Council to develop a plan to address flooding. Meanwhile, Cabinet Coordinator José Luis García Parra highlighted that older interventions—such as the hydraulic concrete on Bulevar 5 de Mayo and the San Francisco River’s channeling—have contributed to current drainage problems.

However, the situation on 7 Sur presents a more immediate concern: storm drains apparently blocked after a recent paving project. Although authorities have not confirmed whether this obstruction caused flooding during the latest rains, residents emphasize the urgency of clearing these drains to prevent water accumulation in future storms.

This local perspective underscores the complexity of urban drainage challenges in Puebla, where new infrastructure efforts must be carefully managed to avoid unintended consequences. As the city navigates these issues, solutions like expanding sustainable transport options—including the upcoming cable car system—could play a role in reducing urban congestion and environmental strain, contributing to more resilient urban planning.