Anambra Vows To Sustain Flood Prevention Measures

Governor Peter Obi of Anambra has assured the people that his administration would sustain preventive measures put in place to avoid flood disaster..

The governor gave the assurance while inspecting evacuation of debris from the drains at Zik’s Avenue within Fegge community in Onitsha South Local Government Area.

He said contrary to prediction that ranked the state as one of the flash points for flooding this year; it had yet to record any major flood disaster.

“This is due to the effective preventive measures taken by the government that included opening of drainage system and water channels which enhanced free flow of water in most parts of the state,’’ he said.

Obi criticised indiscriminate building of houses on drains and water ways, adding that it posed serious challenge to the free flow of water.

He urged the residents of the state to support government efforts to protect the environment through proper disposal of refuse and avoid blocking the drainage systems.

Earlier, Dr Michael Egbebike, the Commissioner for Environment, said several drains in the area had been opened including that at Obodoukwu in Okpoko community and Housing Estate, Fegge.

He said that work was going on at Sacamori mini canal to open drains in order to allow the free flow of water from Ochanja and Fegge axis, Obosi-Awada axis and Okpoko-Odekpe axis to the River Niger.

Meanwhile, Obi has directed the Ministry of Environment to access the wreck caused by erosion at Ideani community along the Nkpor-Umuoji-Nnobi road.

He gave the directive while inspecting the site.

He said that he was informed of the problem by concerned citizens and described the devastation as a serious threat to the strategic road.