DESOPADEC Extends Flood Control De-silting Exercise to Effurun GRA, Uvwie

The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Environment, on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, extended its ongoing de-silting exercise to Effurun GRA in Uvwie Local Government Area.

The initiative, which is part of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s proactive measures against flooding, is aimed at mitigating the impact of the impending rainy season and bringing relief to residents in flood-prone communities across the state.

Residents of Effurun GRA expressed gratitude to DESOPADEC and the state government, noting that the yearly clearing of drains has significantly reduced flooding in the area.

Mr. Peter Eteme, a resident, praised the intervention but urged residents to take responsibility by keeping their surroundings clean.

“The yearly clearing of drains around this GRA has helped us a lot. Water used to gather in front of the Catholic Church and other areas after slight rainfall. However, we must also ensure drains remain free of debris to sustain these efforts,” he said.

Similarly, another resident, Mr. Felix Agbigbe, attributed persistent flooding to an uncleared canal along the Effurun/Ughelli Road but noted that construction giant Julius Berger is currently working on the canal as part of its flyover project.

For food vendor, Mrs. Lilian Onyebuchi, the intervention was a huge relief. “This work DESOPADEC is doing is giving me joy. Before now, the stench from blocked drains around my shop scared customers away. Today, I can sell food without fear of unpleasant smells. May God bless Governor Oborevwori and DESOPADEC,” she said with a smile.

During the operation, workers encountered obstacles, including a huge log of timber and a caked bag of cement deliberately placed in a drain near St. Jude Catholic Church. Officials described such actions as unhelpful, urging residents to cooperate with authorities to ensure the success of the flood prevention exercise.

The de-silting exercise in Effurun GRA covered several strategic areas, including Council Road, Ofeye Uvoh Close, Prince Kohwo Road, Chief Victoria Atiti Close, sections of High Court Road, Brigadier Gen. D.O. Oneya Road, and Johnson Barovbe Close.

DESOPADEC assured residents that similar interventions will continue across flood-prone areas within its mandate to safeguard lives and properties.