Stopping flood in Kano is everyone’s responsibility

As a resident of Kano State, I must commend the efforts of Governor Ganduje towards developing infrastructure. We feel its contributions in economy, social life, health and security of the state. Nevertheless, the recent heavy rainfalls in Kano, which exposed the dilapidated state of our roads and drainage have justified the admonition that the governor […]

As a resident of Kano State, I must commend the efforts of Governor Ganduje towards developing infrastructure. We feel its contributions in economy, social life, health and security of the state. Nevertheless, the recent heavy rainfalls in Kano, which exposed the dilapidated state of our roads and drainage have justified the admonition that the governor needs to do better than just building bridges and constructing roads.

Rainy seasons in Kano are usually full of unfortunate stories of flooding, increased water borne diseases, loss of lives and properties. The people, especially those in the sub-urban areas experience a series of business disruption and hardship.

The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) reported that the recent heavy rainfalls in Kano have destroyed more than 1000 houses  and damaged properties worth over N50 million while 19 people also lost their lives to flood in Doguwa Local Government Area.

In fairness to this administration, it has been implementing projects needed to stop annual flooding. The government has (re)constructed over 50 roads and notable bridges in metropolitan and rural areas. It has also earmarked N1.1bn for environmental sanitation in the 2021 budget. However, considering the devastation wrecked by the flood, one will agree that there is need to critically evaluate the situation in order to put a stop to it.

A major cause of the flooding is the attitude of some residents who knowingly or unknowingly sabotage the efforts of government to stop flood and other associated calamities. For instance, I have seen a community in Dambare which diverted a gutter towards another community. Residents are also involved into indiscriminate dumping of refuse blocking water ways in the process.

To end perennial flood calamities, ministries and agencies responsible should always prepare for the season. This include building more drainage, constructing more roads  and  clearing of drainage to guard against flood. These should be actively monitored till the end of the season.

The government should also make strict enforcement of environmental laws by prosecuting violators.

 

Oyelakin Saheed, Bayero University, Kano