ACTDA begins demolition of illegal structures blocking waterways in Anambra

Taskforce officials of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) have commenced the demolition of illegal structures built along waterways in a bid to prevent flood disasters within Awka capital city and its environs.

In the same vein, the authority has also begun opening drainages and water channels within the capital city to ensure the easy flow of water during the rainy season.

Recall that over five buildings were submerged and more than 13 families displaced from their homes last week during a heavy downpour in Awka, the state capital.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), Ozo Ossy Onuko, in a statement on Wednesday, said the demolition would affect buildings blocking waterways and that such structures must be removed irrespective of their sizes.

ALSO READ: TCN arrests suspects for vandalising Nkalagu–Abakiliki 132kV transmission line

He said, “The Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) is currently carrying out enforcement operations, including the removal of illegal structures obstructing waterways and drainage channels within the Capital Territory.”

According to him, “This action is in response to the increasing cases of flooding caused by blocked waterways.”

“The Authority also warned land grabbers and developers against the sale or allocation of waterways to unsuspecting members of the public for any form of development,” he said.

The authority further issued a stern warning that any structure, regardless of size, found obstructing waterways or drainage channels would be removed without further delay.

Onuko lamented that during every rainy season, lives and property are lost in the Capital Territory due to flooding caused by blocked waterways and drainage channels.

He warned that residents or shop owners who fail to clear and open drainage channels in front of their residences or shops would face stiff penalties.