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Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Umuahia zone, on Monday commenced a major environmental sanitation and drainage dredging operation across key flood-prone areas of the state capital.
According to the Agency, this move is aimed at combating potential flooding predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
Southeastposts reports that the intervention targets waterways and blocked drainage systems in both Umuahia North and South Local Government Areas. Areas currently under operation include Afaraukwu-Aba Road, Ihie Bridge in Umuntu Autonomous Community, and Umudere Bridge connecting to Amakama in Olokoro Clan, Umuahia South.
Speaking to Journalists on Monday during a site inspection, Catechist Jonah Ambrose, Deputy General Manager of ASEPA Umuahia Zone, emphasised that the ongoing cleanup is both preventive and strategic.
According to him,“This exercise is to cushion the effects of flooding and prevent disaster before it occurs,” he said. “We are clearing drainage channels and desilting rivers, including the Ihie River, which has been clogged by non-degradable waste. This will allow for the free flow of stormwater.”
He appealed to residents to desist from indiscriminate waste dumping, especially into rivers and drains, stressing that flood prevention cannot be handled by the government alone
On his part, Mr. Chidiebere Ogbuehi, ASEPA’s Head of Operations, hinted that the agency collects an estimated 216,000 tons of waste annually. He attributed much of the environmental degradation in the state to harmful human behaviour, including poor waste management practices.
“To curb this, ASEPA has launched a door-to-door waste collection initiative,” Ogbuehi explained. “We want to encourage a culture of responsible waste disposal.”
ASEPA also reiterated.that it would continue sensitizing communities on the importance of environmental stewardship and is working to institutionalize more sustainable waste management practices. Public education campaigns are also being planned in collaboration with community leaders and civil society organizations.
Also speaking, the Contractor handling the dredging operation, Mr. Francis Okechukwu Mathew, confirmed that major obstructions at the Ihie Bridge, caused by years of waste buildup are currently being cleared, assuring that the work is progressing steadily and should be completed within 10 days, weather permitting.
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