In a determined effort to mitigate the impact of flooding and implement proactive measures for flood prevention, the Delta State Government, under the leadership of Sheriff Oborevwori, has initiated a large-scale clearing of surface drainages and the mechanical desilting of the Anwai and Iyabi rivers within the capital territory.
Speaking during the flag-off at Anwai River, where the desilting of concrete drainage and the mechanical clearing of natural waterways across the state capital began, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, emphasized the importance of the project.
He stated, “In line with His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s environmental sustainability agenda, we are here to commence the mechanical desilting of both the upstream and downstream sections of the Anwai River, leading to its discharge point at the River Niger. The scope of this work involves the use of swamp buggies to remove silt that is obstructing the free flow of water.”
Mr. Jamani further explained that the urgent desilting of both the Anwai and Iyabi rivers is crucial, as these rivers serve as natural receptors that collect and drain floodwater from feeder drains and stormwater drainage systems within the state capital.
To ensure that this proactive flood control initiative is completed promptly, the Ministry has also commenced the desilting of concrete drains along Okpanam Road, Marian Babangida Road, Jesus save road and other areas across the state capital has deployed swamp buggies to various natural water channels within the state capital.
“We don’t want to take any chances by slowing down the pace of work. Some of the drains are heavily silted, so it’s necessary to open both the concrete drains and the natural channels to allow for the free flow of water in these areas. The Governor is committed to ensuring that flood prevention measures are in place before the floods arrive, demonstrating our responsibility to do more for the people of Delta State,” Jamani stated.
According to him, this initiative, aimed at preventing flooding, protecting property and infrastructure, and promoting a clean and healthy environment in Delta State, is a testament to the Ministry’s commitment to implementing Governor Oborevwori’s environmental agenda and ensuring a sustainable environment for all Deltans.
Present at the low-key event were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Minnie Oseji; Member of the Delta State Waste Management Board, Hon. Felix Erhimadafe; and Executive Assistant to the Governor on Beautification, Mr. Paul Esika, among others.
