Hydraulic Diagnosis of Drainage Works in North Central Kinshasa Facing Design Discharges

Abstract

This study analyzes the hydraulic performance of drainage networks in north central Kinshasa using Manning’s equation and diagnostic indicators (Hydraulic Vulnerability Index – HVI and Hydraulic Utilization Rate – HUR). Three major axes were examined: Boulevard du 30 Juin, Boulevard Lumumba, and Avenue Kasa Vubu. The results reveal strong heterogeneity: some sections exhibit adequate capacity, while others are highly vulnerable, with HUR values exceeding 1,000%. The section-by-section hydraulic approach, combining channel geometry with hydrological inflows from sub basins, enables the identification of critical points and the proposal of appropriate resizing solutions. The study also emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance of drainage structures and the updating of hydrological data in a rapidly urbanizing context. These findings provide a rational basis for the progressive rehabilitation of Kinshasa’s urban drainage networks.