By Chibuzor Kingsley
The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA) has intensified its environmental enforcement operations with the removal of illegal structures erected along major road setbacks around the Ogbogonogo Market corridor in Asaba.
The exercise targeted unauthorized stalls, makeshift extensions, and other obstructions along Ogbogonogo Market, Amaechi Agusi Street, Falcon Club Road, and adjoining streets within the bustling commercial district.
The enforcement operation was led by the Agency’s Head of Environment, Mr. Isaac Nwosu, who supervised the dismantling of structures that had encroached on pedestrian walkways and road corridors, thereby obstructing movement and undermining the city’s urban planning framework.
Speaking during the operation, Nwosu explained that the action followed a series of sensitisation campaigns and abatement notices earlier issued to traders and property owners who failed to comply with established environmental and urban development regulations.
According to him, illegal structures erected on road setbacks contribute significantly to traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and the distortion of the capital city’s master plan.
“Our objective is to restore order, ensure the free flow of traffic, and maintain the environmental and aesthetic standards befitting a state capital,” he stated.
In a related development, the Director-General of the Agency, Mr. Patrick Ukah, conducted an inspection tour of the affected corridors and adjoining roads to assess the progress of the exercise ahead of the anticipated visit of the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori.
Ukah expressed satisfaction with the pace of the enforcement exercise and reiterated the Agency’s resolve to sustain strict monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental regulations within the capital territory.
He also issued a warning that any attempt by individuals or traders to re-erect illegal structures along the cleared road setbacks would attract appropriate sanctions.
Residents and motorists in the area have welcomed the intervention, noting that the clearance would improve visibility, enhance environmental sanitation, and ease traffic movement around the Ogbogonogo Market axis and surrounding streets.
The Agency further assured that routine monitoring and enforcement activities would continue in order to maintain orderliness, safety, and urban standards across the Delta State Capital Territory.
