FCTA Launches Drainage Desilting to Combat Flooding

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has begun a city-wide desilting of drainage channels in Abuja due to heavy rainfalls that caused flash floods, particularly along the Airport Expressway. Mr. Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), stated that the initiative was directed by FCT Minister Mr. Nyesom Wike after floods affected the expressway on Tuesday.

Dauda explained that the flooding is exacerbated by human activities, including illegal developments and infrastructure vandalism, which compromise drainage efficiency. He pointed out that a private developer had illegally constricted a waterway, causing flooding.

Additionally, the theft of metal gully inlet covers by vandals allows debris to enter drains, further aggravating the situation. To combat theft, the FCDA is considering using non-recyclable materials for replacements.

Dauda confirmed that desilting operations are ongoing and urged residents to refrain from dumping refuse into waterways to ensure the effectiveness of government infrastructure.