From Francis Sadhere, Delta

The Delta State Government has called for collective and proactive measures from residents, stakeholders and organizations to help mitigate the impacts of natural disasters, particularly flooding, erosion and other environmental hazards.

The government emphasized the importance of community engagement, preparedness and sustainable environmental practices to safeguard lives and property.

The State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu made the call during a press conference held in Asaba on Thursday.

His remarks followed the severe flooding and erosion caused by torrential rains along Old Lagos-Agbor Road, Boji-Boji Agbor, in Ika South Local Government Area on Wednesday.

Aniagwu said the damages caused by the heavy downpour, affected several properties including vehicles and motorcycles in the Ika axis.

While acknowledging that other parts of the state experienced heavy rains, he stressed that the damage in Ika was particularly severe, necessitating greater public awareness and action to prevent such incidents.

He noted the government’s ongoing efforts in flood control, stating that significant strides have been made in constructing roads with dual drains and storm drainage systems.

“In Asaba, for instance, we have successfully implemented storm drainage systems, such as the one at Ogbeogonogo Market and behind the Asaba Specialist Hospital.

“We are also working on similar projects in other parts of the state, including the Owa-Alero axis and the Warri region,” Aniagwu said.

Despite these efforts, Aniagwu acknowledged the challenges posed by human activities, particularly the improper disposal of refuse into drains.

“When people heap refuse inside these drains, they undermine the capacity of these drainage systems,” he explained. “This obstructs the natural flow of water, causing it to spill over and flood surrounding areas, as we saw in Agbor.”

The Commissioner sympathized with the residents whose vehicles and motorcycles were destroyed by the flood, but also pointed to the role that human negligence plays in exacerbating the effects of natural disasters.

He recalled similar flooding incidents in other countries, such as Dubai and Spain, to highlight that even well-developed nations face such challenges due to poor flood management.

“We have spent billions of Naira building and constructing these drainage systems,” Aniagwu said, urging the public to be more responsible and environmentally conscious. “It is essential that we all play our part in maintaining these systems and preventing the obstruction of drainage channels.”

He stressed that the government will continue its efforts to enhance flood control measures but called on everyone in the community to take responsibility for their environment.

“By adopting environmentally friendly practices and working together, Delta State can build a more resilient community capable of withstanding natural disasters,” he added.