Lagos moves to control flooding

As a means to prevent buildings from collapsing and also contain flooding and traffic jam in the metropolis during the rainy season, the Lagos State Government has commenced the cleaning and clearing of drainage channels across the state.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Public Works/Drainages, Mr Temidayo Erinle, during an inspection of some of the drainages being cleared, said the government was concerned about the challenges usually witnessed whenever it rained.

According to him, the state government has spread the dredging, clearing and cleaning of the channels to the three senatorial districts of the state.

Erinle stated, “The contractors have commenced a three-year contract of dredging, cleaning/clearing of all drainage channels. We are mindful of the terrain and geographical location of Lagos being very close to the coast, which makes it relatively prone to flooding.

“We have come up with global best practices through the engagement of reputable and competent contractors for all year schedule maintenance of all primary, secondary and tertiary drainage channels in the five divisions of the state.”

The special adviser also noted that more drainages were being constructed to prevent flooding, emphasising that the state government was bothered about the re-occurring flooding in the state.

He added, “Apart from what the contractors are doing, the Lagos State Public Works Corporation has also commenced the cleaning/clearing of some road drains and inlets along the Odo Iya Alaro Bridge. Also, plans are in top gear by the government to complete some ongoing drainage projects and construct additional ones.

“Many areas in the state are prone to flooding and this can lead to the collapse of buildings. We are concerned about the welfare of all residents and that is why we are re-dredging to de-flood some catchment areas. This is a continuous exercise because if we do not do it, many communities and buildings will be carried away or be at risk.”

He warned residents against the encroachment on drainage alignments and indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drainages.

Erinle said, “In some areas, we have to deploy manual means of clearing the drainage, because the tractor cannot access the sites. This will still ensure effectiveness and allow water to flow freely. However, we appeal to Lagosians to stop encroaching on drainage alignments to the extent of sand-filling and putting structures on them. This blocks the channel and prevents effective flow of water.”

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