Expected flooding: DTSG embarks on clearing of blocked water channels

Commences exercise in Ughelli

By Jon Egie

Ahead of flooding expected from heavy rainfall in the next two months, the Delta State Government has embarked on massive clearance of waste and opening water ways blocked by waste deposits to allow for free flow of water through the water channels.

Director of Special Duties and Chairman of Task Force on the removal of illegal structures and recovery of government land, Chief Frank Omare gave the hint in Ughelli yesterday.

Without an exception, he warned that anyone who obstructs the exercise irrespective of his social status in society will be dealt with.

“We have come to open the water ways that are blocked because so many houses block the water channels. One of such is owned by an official of the state government, Chief Victor Egbo who is a Commissioner of DESPOPADEC. That house will be brought down. I am glad that he knows the policy of the Oborevwori led government. And let this be clear warning to others, if the house of Last Mugu can be brought down because it obstructs the water channels, no one will be spared.

‘The exercise has just begun and more swamp buggies will be engaged for the period the exercise will last. The people of Ughelli should therefore cooperate as we will not compromise.. We will adhere strictly to the directives of the governor.

‘I am pleading with Ughelli people not to bribe anybody; we will not compromise so that the flood that is coming will do minimal damage because the times are hard. We will not victimize anybody and we will not seek permission from anybody, being youth body or community leadership before we clear any blockage on the water channels”. He said.