ABUJA FLOODING: IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT GREEN AREAS
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) had issued warnings of severe flooding and FCT was included among other states. Flood is a rise in the level of water above the permissible level. It could be flash
Abuja has recently experienced severe flooding, but it's not solely due to the lack of green areas. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) had previously issued warnings of severe flooding, including for FCT. Flooding is defined as water levels rising above a permissible level, caused by various factors such as rainfall, river overflow, storm, melting snow, or urban activity - including excessive rainfall or blocked drains.
The Abuja flooding appears to have been flash flooding, resulting from saturated soil and blocked drainage systems.
The city's infrastructure, particularly its drainage systems, is subpar. Manholes have been stolen, and gullies have been filled with sand, impeding water flow. Overpopulation also exacerbates the issue, as the drainage capacity is stretched beyond its limits. The government's role in land allocation and conversion is scrutinized, with allegations that green areas are being converted for development.
Urban pressure for land in popular areas like Maitama and Asokoro adds strain. The courts contribute to the problem by prioritizing property in these regions for surety.
To address the flooding, the Abuja Master Plan needs revision to create more drainage channels. Additionally, the sewage system must be redesigned, and gullies must be consistently maintained. The Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) should regularly clear water lines. It's not just about increasing green spaces, but also about improving infrastructure and managing urban growth responsibly.
Written by urgent.news from This Day's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
