Seoul Inspects Water Supply Safety Ahead of Rainy Season, Takes Immediate Action on 133 Issues

The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that it has completed safety inspections of 422 water supply facilities, including water intake plants, purification plants, and reservoirs, in preparation for heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The city took immediate on-site action to address 133 risk factors that could lead to flooding or other damage.

For 40 days, from May 11 to June 19, the city conducted intensive inspections of water supply facilities and major construction sites, focusing on safety management, surrounding environments, and electrical and mechanical equipment.

A total of 201 risk factors were identified during the inspections.

Among these, 133 issues that could potentially lead to facility damage during heavy rain—such as sediment buildup in drainage channels, trees at risk of falling, and malfunctioning drainage pumps—were addressed immediately on-site.

The remaining 68 cases, which require long-term repairs or reinforcement due to issues like structural cracks or corrosion, will be addressed in phases according to a separate plan.

To prevent suffocation accidents in confined spaces during the summer, the city has completed the installation of warning devices for workers at 12,720 high-risk water supply manholes.

These devices are circular structures installed beneath manhole covers that help workers re-verify safety protocols and potential hazards before entering.

According to the Ministry of Employment and Labor, 40 out of the 126 deaths from suffocation in confined spaces between 2015 and 2024, or 31.7 percent, occurred between June and August.

Separately, the Seoul Metropolitan Government is inspecting 38,891 water supply manholes for aging and damage. As of the end of last month, inspections were completed for 6,034 of them (15.5 percent).

When weather alerts such as heavy rain or typhoon warnings are issued, the city plans to activate an emergency response system, which includes emergency inspections of water supply facilities and the phased strengthening of water purification processes, to ensure a stable supply of tap water and maintain water quality.

Ko Yong-tae, head of the Seoul Arisu Waterworks Headquarters, said, "As more frequent and intense heavy rainfall is expected compared to previous years, we have completed preemptive inspections and maintenance," adding, "We will ensure that citizens can use Arisu with peace of mind through thorough facility management and rapid on-site responses."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.