Bayelsa begins desilting of water channels to prevent flooding

Bayelsa State is proactively tackling potential flooding with a comprehensive desilting of its water channels. Governor Douye Diri's administration has initiated a large-scale exercise across Yenagoa and nearby communities, aiming to mitigate the impact of the upcoming rainy season.

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The desilting exercise is aimed at improving the free flow of water through existing canals and drainage channels in order to reduce the risk of flooding during the peak of the rainy season.

The State Directorate of Flood and Erosion Control is spearheading the effort, which began with work on the St. Peter’s–Obele Canal and the Osiri Road canal. The primary goal is to ensure a free flow of water through existing canals and drainage systems, thereby reducing the risk of severe flooding.

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Additional machines are being mobilised to various locations to accelerate the flood mitigation exercise and ensure that critical water channels are cleared before the rains intensify.

Additional equipment is being deployed to various waterways, including creeks, streams, and canals throughout the state capital and its environs. The Directorate emphasized the government's commitment to annual flood-control measures, highlighting that regular waterway clearing demonstrates a dedication to safeguarding lives and property. They also issued stern warnings against indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels and waterways, identifying specific canals as major problem areas. Offenders face sanctions under existing environmental laws. Furthermore, the Directorate cautioned against building on canal setbacks and right-of-way corridors, as such structures obstruct water movement and increase flood likelihood. Residents, especially children, are urged to stay clear of areas where heavy desilting machinery is operating due to safety concerns.

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The Bayelsa State Government has continued to show strong dedication to the safety and well-being of residents through proactive disaster prevention measures, including the routine desilting of canals and waterways.