Delta Intensifies Flood Preparedness, Identifies IDP Camps as Rainfall Threat Persists

The Delta State Government has intensified preparations for possible flooding across the state, identifying vulnerable communities and designated locations that could serve as Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps if residents are forced to evacuate their homes.

The government said the move was part of a proactive strategy to prevent the current flash flooding being experienced in some areas from escalating into a major emergency.

The Commissioner for Bureau for Special Duties and Co-Chairman of the Delta State Flood Committee, Hon. Terry Etagherure, disclosed this while speaking in Asaba.

Etagherure said the state was not waiting for flooding to worsen or for official forecasts to be released before taking precautionary measures.

According to him, the Delta State Flood Committee regularly meets to assess the state’s level of preparedness and develop appropriate responses to possible flood emergencies.

He added that representatives from flood-prone local government areas were involved in the response mechanism to ensure effective coordination of information and emergency plans at the grassroots.

The commissioner, however, clarified that the flooding currently being experienced in some parts of Delta should not necessarily be regarded as a major flood disaster.

He described the situation as flash flooding, noting that water in many affected locations usually recedes within two or three days when there is no further rainfall.

Despite the situation, Etagherure said the government was taking no chances and had continued to prepare for the possibility of worsening conditions.

Blocked drains worsening flooding

One of the major concerns identified by the government is the poor condition of drainage systems in some communities.

Etagherure blamed blocked drainage channels and indiscriminate dumping of refuse for worsening flooding in areas that ordinarily might not experience severe waterlogging.

He explained that when gutters and drainage channels are blocked, stormwater cannot flow freely, causing water to overflow into roads, homes and business premises during heavy rainfall.

The government, he said, had continued to sensitise residents on the dangers of dumping waste in gutters, drainage channels and waterways.

He added that efforts were also ongoing to clear blocked drains and improve stormwater movement across affected communities.

According to him, a committee within the ministry regularly visits communities to educate residents and encourage them to keep drainage channels free of refuse and other obstructions.

Government warns against building on waterways

The commissioner also raised concerns over the construction of buildings and other structures on waterways.

He explained that the regulation of structures erected on waterways largely falls under the ministry responsible for urban development, noting that action had already been taken against some structures identified as obstructing waterways.

Such measures, he said, could include stopping construction activities and removing structures where necessary.

Etagherure stressed that waterways must remain open to allow water to follow its natural course, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.

Delta stocks relief materials for flood victims

Meanwhile, the state government said it had made provisions for relief materials that could be distributed to communities affected by flooding.

The commissioner disclosed that relief materials were already available and that government had compiled information on affected communities and residents.

He said distribution would be based on the level of need, particularly for residents whose homes, businesses and livelihoods are affected by flooding.

Etagherure assured residents that the government would continue to support affected communities should the situation worsen.

IDP camps ready if flood escalates

The commissioner said the state had identified locations that could be used as IDP camps if flooding becomes severe enough to require mass evacuation.

He explained that should the situation escalate into a major flood emergency, the government would activate its response plans, including evacuating residents from severely affected areas, moving them to designated locations and providing relief materials.

He urged residents in flood-prone communities to remain alert and cooperate with authorities.

Residents urged to stop dumping refuse in drains

Etagherure stressed that flood management could not be left to government alone, urging residents to take responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean.

He called on residents to stop dumping refuse in gutters, drainage channels and waterways, while encouraging them to report blocked drains and other conditions capable of worsening flooding.

The commissioner said the government maintained a working relationship with the Ministry of Environment and other relevant agencies on drainage, waste management and broader environmental challenges.

For Delta State, he said, the immediate priority was to prevent flash flooding from developing into a wider emergency while ensuring that adequate measures were in place should a major flood occur.

The Delta State Flood Committee, he added, would continue monitoring developments and coordinating with relevant ministries, agencies and local governments.

Residents, particularly those living in historically flood-prone communities, are therefore advised to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions and cooperate with emergency officials.