9th June, 2011
The Lagos State government has urged Lagosians to begin immediate clearing of drains in their frontages and surroundings in order to prevent flooding in the state.
This is part of government’s pro-active approach to combat flood in the state.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Wasiu Olokunola gave this advise while supervising clearing of drainage channels in Ikorodu, Lagos, southwest Nigeria, adding that government was determined to ensure that this year’s rainy season would be flood-free.
“The only way to preserve the life span of the massive investment in roads by the Fashola administration is that residents should cultivate the habit of daily clearance of drains in their frontages, as we all know that blocked drains lead to flooding, which is the greatest enemy of paved roads,†he said.
He added that research had revealed that activities of car wash operators, who discharge waste water on roads, damages the road and causes flooding.
The Permanent Secretary said government had commenced a clampdown on all illegal car wash operators, adding that those apprehended would face the wrath of the law.
He urged Lagosians to join hands with the government and report illegal car wash operators as well as challenge them to desist from the act, which causes serious damage to the road network built with taxpayers’ money.
Olokunola enjoined Lagosians to keep the state’s roads in good condition by regularly clearing the frontages of their homes and desist from discharging waste water, oil and other lubricants on paved roads to improve their life-span as well as prevent flooding in the state.
—Kazeem Ugbodaga