Ekiti dredges waterways to curb flooding

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ekiti State Government has commenced the dredging of waterways and river channels in flood-prone areas as part of measures to reduce the risk of flooding across the state.

The exercise, being carried out by the Ekiti State Environmental Protection Agency, is aimed at improving the flow of stormwater by removing silt, refuse and other materials obstructing natural water channels.

The General Manager of EKSEPA, Sunday Adunmo, disclosed this on Friday in Ado-Ekiti, saying the ongoing work covered parts of the state capital, some communities in Ido-Ekiti and other areas identified as vulnerable to flooding.

According to him, the accumulation of silt, refuse and debris in some waterways had restricted the free flow of water, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

Adunmo said the dredging was part of the state government’s broader efforts to protect residents, property and farmlands from the effects of flooding.

“We are currently dredging some waterways in Ado-Ekiti and communities in Ido-Ekiti to ensure free flow of water and reduce flooding,” he said.

Meanwhile, the EKSEPA boss urged residents to stop dumping refuse in waterways and drainage channels, warning that blocked channels could worsen flooding during heavy downpours.

He also cautioned residents against constructing houses, fences and other structures on waterways, adding that the agency would continue to monitor vulnerable locations and enforce environmental regulations to minimise the risk of flooding.