The Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA) has commended the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) for supporting the clearance of drainage channels in the state, describing the exercise as a significant intervention towards improving water flow and reducing the risk of flooding.
The Director-General of CR-SEMA, Mr. Efa Nyong, gave the commendation during an inspection of the recently cleared drainage channels, which were worked on with the support of the SSDC through the deployment of a swamp buggy.
Nyong praised the Cross River State Government, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the SSDC, Miss Usoro Offiong Akpabio, and the engineers involved in the exercise for their contributions to the successful clearance of the channels.
He noted that removing accumulated sand and other obstructions would improve the drainage system’s capacity to convey stormwater, particularly during heavy rainfall.
According to him, the intervention would help minimise flooding risks and protect communities and property from possible flood-related damage.
“The clearance of these drainage channels is commendable because it will improve water flow and reduce the possibility of flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall,” Nyong said.
While applauding the intervention, the CR-SEMA boss called for additional structural measures to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the drainage channels.
He recommended the construction of concrete linings along the channels to prevent soil erosion and the accumulation of sand, which could gradually obstruct water flow and undermine the gains of the clearance exercise.
“Beyond clearing the channels, there is a need to provide concrete linings to protect their sides from erosion and prevent the continuous accumulation of sand. This will help maintain the channels and ensure that water flows freely,” he advised.
Nyong stressed that effective flood management required not only regular drainage maintenance but also durable infrastructure capable of withstanding the impact of heavy rainfall.
He expressed appreciation to the SSDC and other stakeholders for supporting interventions aimed at improving environmental safety and strengthening the state’s preparedness against flooding.
By David Asu
