Residents of Calabar, the Cross River State capital can now heave a sigh of relief, as the State Government, has begun desilting blocked drainage systems to ensure the free flow of floodwater. to mitigate flooding as the rainy season begins.
This is sequel to an early projections from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) indicate above-average rainfall across several parts of the country, with heightened flood risks in coastal and riverine states including Cross River State.
Briefing journalists at the site of desilting of the 4.5 km Channel 1, one of the major drainages in the state capital, the Executive Secretary of Calabar Urban Development Agency, CUDA, Dr Ayi Effiong said the initiative was a proactive step to address urban flooding and promote environmental sustainability.
"This is not just another routine government activity, it reflects our commitment to proactive environmental governance and urban resilience.
He said the government has employed a mechanised system in desilting the Channel 1 drainage, a key intersection in the Calabar Urban, with modern drainage infrastructure to curb perennial flooding and ease traffic and pedestrian movement.
Residents have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major step towards addressing persistent flooding challenges in the area, a situation they say has lingered for
The executive secretary commended Governor Bassey Otu for approving the exercise and the rehabilitation of key infrastructure in the area.
He called on residents to avoid indiscriminate waste disposal and to report blocked drains to relevant authorities.
“The government will do its part, but citizens must also take responsibility. Sustainable environmental management requires collective effort,” he said.
Effiong said desilting had already commenced in some communities, with waste being promptly evacuated to prevent blockages.
“Although there is no current partnership with federal agencies, the state government is taking timely and independent steps to intervene before the onset of heavy rains,” he said.
On waste management, the executive secretary said progress had been recorded in reducing roadside dumping of refuse attributing the development to ongoing public sensitisation campaigns.
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