Flood: DESOPADEC warns against building on waterways

Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission has warned residents against building structures on waterways and dumping waste in drainages.

This is coming in the Commission’s ongoing efforts to effectively tackle the recurring flood challenges in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday by the DESOPADEC Board Member, representing Urhobo ethnic nationality, Sylvester Ovbije, during an inspection tour of ongoing dredging and clearing projects at Oviri Agbarho in Ughelli North Local Government Area.

DESOPADEC’s initiative is part of the Delta State plan to mitigate the effects of flooding and protect communities from the devastating impacts that come with it.

The DESOPADEC Board member urged residents to use the approved private sector participation waste disposal systems and to consult relevant government agencies before purchasing land to avoid building across waterways.

He noted that the “government will no longer tolerate the construction of illegal structures that block waterways, causing rainwater to flood homes and contributing to the spread of diseases”

He also revealed that a state task force has been established to remove such structures and enforce compliance with regulations.

Ovbije praised the Delta State Government, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for initiating desilting operations through DESOPADEC to clear blocked canals and allow for free water flow in anticipation of heavy rains.

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