By Ndife David, Anambra
The Anambra State Government has intensified efforts to tackle flooding and gully erosion, blaming illegal developments on waterways and violations of physical planning regulations for worsening the environmental challenges.
A joint team comprising the Commissioners for Works and Infrastructure, Physical Planning and Urban Development, and Environment inspected flood- and erosion-prone areas in Ogidi and Onitsha, including Ogidi Market, Building Materials Market, Opi Stream, Marine Area, and Trans-Nkisi Layout.
Speaking during the inspection, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Arc. Okey Ezeobi, disclosed that Phases Two and Three of the Ogidi Flood Control Project had been completed, while the design for Phase One was ready. He assured residents that the government was committed to providing lasting solutions to recurring flooding.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, revealed that some traders in Building Materials Market, Ogidi, had erected structures on designated drainage channels, obstructing water flow and worsening flooding. He warned that all illegal structures blocking waterways would be removed to restore critical drainage networks.
Also, Commissioner for Environment, Barr. Clem Aguiyi, blamed illegal construction, indiscriminate waste disposal, and destruction of vegetation for the growing environmental crisis, urging residents to support government efforts by protecting drainage infrastructure and planting erosion-control trees.
Community leaders from the affected areas commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration for responding to their concerns and pledged support for measures aimed at achieving lasting solutions to flooding and erosion.
Tags: Anambra, Chukwuma Soludo, Flooding, Erosion, Environment
