Oyo dredges 11 Rivers To Curb Flooding

The Oyo State Government has disclosed that it has dredged 11 rivers as part of proactive measures to address flooding during the rainy season in the state.

According to reports by The PUNCH, the Nigeria Hydrological Service Agency and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency have predicted that several states, including Oyo, will experience flooding this year.

A statement released by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, in Ibadan, the state capital, on Wednesday, revealed that the government announced during the Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Secretariat, Agodi, in Ibadan.

He further mentioned that the Ministry of Environment has been directed to procure more compactor trucks to enhance refuse collection in the municipality.

Oyelade said, “To protect lives and property, the council approved the immediate dredging of 11 flood-prone rivers across the state, including those in Iseyin, Oyo, Ibadan, Igbo Ora, Ogbomoso, and others.”

The commissioner also stated that the council has approved the procurement of firefighting auxiliary and special equipment for the Oyo State Fire Service Agency to enhance firefighting, rescue operations, and protect firefighters from occupational hazards.

“Approval was also given for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to procure compactor trucks to supplement efficiency in refuse collection. The approval for these three projects amounts to N690 million.”

“The council also considered and approved the procurement and installation of a transformer and power generator for the Omololu Olunloyo Monumental Park, as well as an energy storage upgrade for the dualised Ladoke Akintola Airport Road.”

He explained that the main reason for the shutdown of the airport in recent weeks was to upgrade its infrastructure to international standards, improving its aesthetic value, recreation facilities, advertising displays, direction signs, and speed limit indicators necessary for international flight operations.

“The project will cost N224,781,750. The Executive Council also approved the installation of public lighting along the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, Phase One.”

Oyelade further explained that the 110 km motorway will ease traffic congestion in the Ibadan metropolis. Additionally, travellers from other parts of the country will be able to bypass the city traffic by linking the circular road to their destinations.

“The project is aimed at ensuring adequate, sustainable lighting on the motorway and enhancing socio-economic growth and investment in Oyo State, including the development of the night-time economy. The project will cost N15,111,129,535.30.”

The government also approved the rehabilitation of several roads, including the Bolajoko Estate Road Network, General Gas, Bishop’s Court Road, Jejelaye, Peace Roads, and Anifalaje Area, for the sum of N1,988,512,481.00.

Punch