Urban Drainage Systems and Implications on the Inhabitants and Physical Environment of Buea Urban Area, South West Region of Cameroon

Aim: Rapid urban and unplanned development and increased construction have significantly altered the surface coverage of many developing cities triggering environmental hazards with severe human health and environmental consequences. This study examines the impact of unplanned urban drainage systems on the environment and public health in Buea, Cameroon, to identify key challenges and propose sustainable solutions. Methods: A mixed-methods design was used. 300 semi-structured questionnaires were administered to a sample selected by simple random sample from a population of 40,073. Field observations of 30 drainage systems, measuring their depth and width to assess runoff evacuation effectiveness against international standards, were conducted using measuring tapes and GPS for spatial data collection. In addition to purposive face-to-face interviews held with 15 key officials from the departments of urban planning and housing, environmental engineering, urban development, water management, and environmental protection of government-related delegations of ministries, parastatals and the municipal council, secondary data were gathered from diverse sources including council reports, news outlets, and academic literature. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (percentages and frequencies and chi-square) via Microsoft Excel and SPSS (Version 23.0) while qualitative interview data underwent thematic content analysis. Results revealed that 85% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the urban drainage system, citing poor infrastructure, inadequate waste management, rapid population growth, and government inaction as key issues. Results: Major environmental consequences identified include stream pollution, soil erosion, and ecosystem degradation, correlating with increased reports of waterborne diseases among the population. The correlation values on the relationship between poor drainage facilities and environmental challenges and health effects if the residents were very strong and positive as indicated by (P Value=0.911 and P Value 0.815) respectively. The measurements on drainage capacity indicated significant deviations from recommended standards, hindering effective runoff evacuation. Conclusion: The findings emphasize a critical urban drainage crisis in Buea, demanding immediate and integrated action from stakeholders. Recommendations: The study recommends increased investment in infrastructure and reconstruction, stringent monitoring of the environment. Rigorous enforcement of urban planning policies with heavy fines for defaulters should be adopted as an immediate priority and public awareness campaigns on environmental sustainability (most urgent). Additionally, establishing partnerships with local and international agencies can improve drainage management and environmental resilience. Other African cities should adopt options for sustainable urban development provided in this study.