Tbilisi mayor says clogged storm drains caused flooding

The Georgian government is seeking to address the causes of the severe flooding that hit parts of the capital, Tbilisi, following heavy rainfall, with Mayor Kakha Kaladze saying one of the factors was clogged storm drains blocked by broken branches, leaves and household waste.

The second factor, he said, was the lack of stormwater drainage infrastructure in some districts of the city, as well as the deteriorating condition of the existing system, Caliber.Az reports, citing Georgian media.

"Across the city, we face serious problems in terms of underground utility infrastructure. Of course, we cannot solve everything at once, but gradually all these problems will be addressed and eliminated," Kaladze noted.

Heavy rainfall battered Tbilisi for a second consecutive day, causing flooding across several parts of the Georgian capital and severely affecting Shota Rustaveli International Airport.

The airport continues to receive and dispatch flights despite the flooding.

The arrivals hall has been partially left without electricity, while the airport's remaining services continue to operate normally.

Airport officials have advised passengers to check flight information in advance before travelling to the airport, warning that schedule changes may occur due to the disruption.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov