In an effort to identify the role that human error plays in the latest disaster for southern Taiwan, one expert pointed to Kaohsiung's lack of detention basins. Following a major flood nine years ago, an official study showed that the city needs at least six of such facilities for flood prevention, but over the years, only one has been built.

Typhoon Fanapi caused severe flooding across Kaohsiung City, with floodwaters reaching one-story high in Benhe Borough's Sanming Community.

A detention basin was constructed for Benhe Borough due to its low elevation, but many are wondering whether it had any effect at all.

According to National Taiwan University Professor Lee Hong-yuan, Kaohsiung City needs more than one detention basin. Detention basins are like large-scale reservoirs with an opening on one end for the release of water.

Following the 711 Flood nine years ago, the Kaohsiung City Government commissioned National Cheng Kung University to conduct a review of the city's flood prevention measures.

NCKU recommended the construction of six detention basins, but then-Kaohsiung City Mayor Frank Hsieh claimed that his government didn't have enough funds to construct six basins, and built only one.

When asked whether the delay was responsible for widespread flooding during Typhoon Fanapi, current Kaohsiung City Mayor Chen Chu said that she will review the situation.

Meanwhile, residents of Nanzi District, which also sustained severe flood damage, believe that the flooding was caused by a Navy dam.

In response, a Zuoyin logistics command officer said that the construction of the dam did not change the original drainage systems of area rivers, and that torrential rains were to blame.

Are humans responsible for Kaohsiung's flood damage? The public is awaiting an answer from the city government.

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