The 2024 seasonal rainfall prediction and annual flood outlook stated that Anambra state, a flood prone area according to Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) will witness a massive flooding as this year’s rainy season sets in.
Anambra State Government, through the ministry of Environment has commenced state wide campaign against clogged water channels and other environmental practices that are inimical to good health.
Speaking to newsmen in his office, the Anambra State Commissioner for Environment Engr. Dr Felix Odimegwu stated that the ministry had released a statement to the general public on the 20th of February 2024 which mandated all traditional rulers, President-Generals, markets, motor parks, schools, estates, churches, abattoirs, shopping complexes and plazas to desilt and evacuate all silts and debris with immediate effect.
According to Odimegwu “The year 2023 recorded reduced flooding and zero fatalities as a result of proactive deliberate intervention by the state government to desilt all major drainages, water ways, canals and gutters”
“It is enforcement time and the team will be acting in accordance with the public health law 2006 which mandates all public premises, occupants to keep their drainages free of encumbrances of silt and sand.
“The Environment is one of the five pillar agenda of the Soludo’s led administration and we are hell-bent on achieving the clean, green and sustainable environment where we can all live, work and enjoy life.
“Those who do not comply will be arrested. Many establishments given abatement notice as a result of non-compliance have been sealed and will be prosecuted accordingly.
“Governor Chukwuma Soludo led administration since it’s inception flagged off drainage desilting campaign tagged “operation keep your gutters clean” which is geared towards achieving a clean, green and sustainable Anambra state.
“It is being carried out in two phases (phases 1 and 2) every year as part of flood mitigation strategy. This year’s drainage desilting which started in major areas in Awka on the 24th of April, 2024 will move to other parts of the state.
“Am urging ndi Anambra to do the needful by clearing all drainages, water ways, canals as the enforcement team are ever ready to prosecute all defaulters with severe penalty”. Odimegwu disclosed.
