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is the overcharged condition of the main intercepting
Sewers, it is but due, however, to note that the unexceptional
avalanche-like downfall of rain within so short a
period overpowered and overtaxed all the previous conceived
necessities and appliances provided for ordinary wet seasons,
and this subject must, I think, lead at no distant date to a
serious consideration for the providing means to cope with
such visitations in the future. These when undertaken must
be of an extended character, and in the first instance (at
least) must precede any Local extensions or enlargements of
the present Sewers.
I may again remark that our Local Sewers as a whole
worked well, in proof of which scarcely had the storm abated,
than our Roads and Streets (which an hour previously were
under water), became passable, the Gully drainage acting
efficiently, and the Sewers performing their duty as local
conduits, leading to the greater conduits of the Main Sewers.
So long as this telescopic delivery is maintained uninterrupted,
we are tolerably safe, except under such visitations
as the storm of the 30th ult., which, it appears (reasonably
considered) it is scarcely possible to provide against.
I have been in communication with the Engineer of
the Metropolitan Board of Works on this subject, and I
know it is receiving his anxious consideration. In conclusion,
although I admit it is but poor comfort, I may
confidently report, that other districts have been similarly,
if not more seriously, visited.
J. C. REYNOLDS.
Surveyor.
August 1st, 1888,