Anambra starts waterway cleanup April 27 to stop floods

The Anambra State Government has announced plans to begin a statewide clearance of waterways and drainage systems as part of efforts to prevent flooding ahead of the rainy season.

The initiative, tagged “Operation Clear Your Waterways 3.0,” is scheduled to commence on April 27, according to a public notice issued by the Ministry of Environment.

Speaking on the development, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Tochukwu Obodogha, said the exercise is aimed at removing silt, debris and waste materials blocking drainage channels across the state.

He warned that failure to clear waterways before the onset of heavy rains could lead to severe flooding, erosion and environmental damage, putting lives and property at risk.

Residents, businesses and community groups have been urged to take responsibility for clearing drainage systems within their surroundings. The directive applies to homes, markets, schools, religious centres and public spaces, with authorities stressing that collective action is necessary to reduce flood risks.

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The government said all stakeholders, including landlord associations, transport operators, religious organisations and market unions, are expected to actively participate in the cleanup exercise.

Obodogha noted that waste removed from drains must be properly disposed of at designated sites, warning against dumping debris on roadsides, which could worsen environmental conditions.

He added that defaulters who fail to comply with the directive will face sanctions, although specific penalties were not disclosed.

The move comes amid fresh warnings from the federal government over potential flooding in parts of the state. According to the National Flood Early Warning Centre, several communities in Anambra State, including Atani, Iyowa Odekpe and Onitsha, have been identified as high-risk areas likely to experience heavy rainfall and flooding.

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Authorities say the clearance exercise is a proactive step to mitigate the impact of the expected rains, with residents advised to take precautionary measures and support government efforts to maintain clean and functional drainage systems.