Cross River State Government Commences Drainage Desilting Initiative
The Cross River State government has embarked on an aggressive drainage desilting exercise in Calabar, the state capital, aiming to alleviate flooding concerns and enhance urban resilience. This proactive measure comes in response to early alerts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), which predicted above-average rainfall and heightened flood risks for coastal regions like Cross River.
Inspection of Key Drainage Channel
During a recent inspection of the ongoing desilting of the 4.5-kilometre Channel 1, a major drainage artery in Calabar, Dr Ayi Effiong, the Executive Secretary of the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA), emphasized the significance of this initiative. He described it as a deliberate and strategic response to the persistent threat of urban flooding, rather than a routine governmental task.
Dr Effiong stated, "This exercise underscores our commitment to environmental sustainability and urban resilience. It is a critical step towards safeguarding our communities from the adverse effects of flooding."
Mechanised Approach and Expected Benefits
The desilting operation employs a mechanised approach to clear blocked drainage systems, with Channel 1 serving as a vital flood control route. Dr Effiong highlighted that this project is anticipated to yield multiple benefits, including a significant reduction in perennial flooding, improved traffic flow, and enhanced pedestrian safety across the city.
Residents have expressed widespread approval of the initiative, viewing it as a long-overdue intervention to address recurring flooding that has disrupted homes, businesses, and daily mobility for years. Many have praised the government for taking timely action to mitigate these challenges.
Government and Community Collaboration
Dr Effiong commended Governor Bassey Otu for authorising the desilting exercise and prioritising infrastructure rehabilitation throughout the state. However, he stressed that governmental efforts alone are insufficient to achieve lasting environmental sustainability.
He urged residents to actively participate by avoiding indiscriminate waste disposal and promptly reporting blocked drains. "Environmental sustainability requires shared responsibility. While the government fulfills its role, citizens must support these efforts to ensure long-term success," he added.
Progress and Future Plans
Desilting activities have already commenced in several communities, with debris being efficiently evacuated to prevent re-blockage of drainage channels. Dr Effiong noted that the state is undertaking this exercise independently, without current collaboration with federal agencies, to proactively address flooding risks before the rainy season intensifies.
Additionally, he reported noticeable improvements in waste management, attributing reduced roadside dumping to sustained public sensitisation campaigns. This progress complements the desilting efforts, fostering a cleaner and more resilient urban environment for all residents.
