By Elohor Foghola
KWALE/Nigeria: As part of its ongoing efforts to control flooding, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has ramped up the clearing and dredging of canals, drainages, and waterways across the state. These initiatives are aimed at ensuring a flood-free Delta, particularly during the rainy season.
On a recent inspection tour, Dr. Charles Olisa, the Commissioner representing Ndokwa Nationality on the DESOPADEC Board, visited several ongoing projects in Ndokwa East Local Government Area. The inspection covered the internal road drains at Beneku, Ashaka, Aboh, and Kwale, where intensive cleanup operations are underway to unclog blocked drains and canals.
In addition to these efforts in Ndokwa East, DESOPADEC has commenced similar operations in Ndokwa West. The cleanup efforts include key locations such as Utagba Ogbe Secondary School in Kwale, Udaka Street, Ipo Street leading to Apa Road, Umusadege Kwale, Afia-Eze Road to Pontu, and the Ughelli-Kwale Expressway.
Dr. Olisa highlighted the significance of these projects, noting that clearing the canals and drainages will significantly reduce the challenges faced by flood-prone areas during the rainy season, thereby safeguarding lives and properties. He also called on community leaders to educate their people on sustainable waste management practices and issued a stern warning against the unlawful dumping of waste in drainages, which could obstruct water flow and compromise the effectiveness of flood control structures.
Assuring the public of DESOPADEC’s commitment, Dr. Olisa emphasized that the Commission, under the leadership of Nani/Ochonogor, remains dedicated to achieving the State Governor’s vision of a flood-free Delta.
In a related development, Chief Victor Egbo, the Commissioner representing Isoko Nationality on the DESOPADEC Board, led a team to inspect ongoing work behind the Mechanic Village in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area. Chief Egbo stressed the importance of policy consistency, particularly in maintaining canals to prevent the recurrence of flooding in Isoko.
“The trajectory of the canal stretches from the back of the Mechanic Village in Oleh to Olomoro Bridge, Lyede, down to Patani River, carrying water from several communities including Ozoro, Irri, Aviara, and Idheze,” Chief Egbo explained.
Residents have lauded DESOPADEC’s efforts. Chief Isaac Omoyero, a resident near the canal in Oleh, commended the Commission for its commitment to maintaining the canal, stating that it will significantly reduce the destructive impact of perennial flooding in the community.
Similarly, Chief Bright A. Abeke, Executive Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area, praised the state government and DESOPADEC for their timely intervention in addressing flooding in the area. He acknowledged the ravaging effects of perennial flooding, often exacerbated by indiscriminate waste disposal and building on water channels.
“This effort will facilitate the free flow of water and prevent flooding in residential areas, thereby alleviating a significant burden on the Council,” Chief Abeke stated. He also urged residents to refrain from encroaching on canal rights of way and warned that punitive actions would be taken against anyone caught illegally disposing of waste in the canals.
