By Chibuzor Kingsley
The Director-General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA), Patrick Ukah, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to tackling perennial flooding within the state capital following an inspection of ongoing flood control infrastructure projects in Asaba.
Ukah, on Tuesday, toured the construction site of the Ogbeilo/Ugbomanta flood mitigation project, which includes a major discharge drainage channel extending through the Ogbeogonogo Market axis to Otuogwu Bay. The visit was aimed at assessing the pace and quality of work as well as evaluating the project’s overall progress.
The drainage intervention is considered one of the most strategic flood control projects within the Delta State Capital Territory, designed to address recurring flooding in Ogbeilo, Ogbeogonogo and adjoining communities, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Speaking during the inspection, the DSCTDA boss acknowledged the technical complexities associated with the project but expressed satisfaction with the level of execution achieved by the contractors.
According to him, the extensive drainage network will enhance stormwater evacuation, reduce flood risks, safeguard lives and property, and improve environmental conditions across affected neighbourhoods.
Ukah noted that additional safety measures would be introduced upon completion of the project, including the installation of protective barricades and warning signs around deep manholes to prevent accidents and discourage indiscriminate disposal of waste into drainage channels.
The Director-General also inspected the ongoing construction of the Ogbeogonogo Modern Market, describing the project as a major commercial infrastructure initiative that will enhance trading activities and create a more organised business environment.
He explained that traders currently operating along adjoining roads and walkways would be relocated into the newly constructed market stalls upon completion of the project to improve traffic flow, restore orderliness and promote ease of movement within the area.
As part of the inspection exercise, Ukah visited several other road and infrastructure projects across the Capital Territory.
These included the construction of Ogochukwu Mowers/Prince Nwanne Street and Bepof Lane in Asaba; completed road networks within Olikili Layout, comprising Mike Arinze Street, Ezeweani Way, Tony Bakaso Street, Trust in God Lane and Emma Obiokolo Street with a spur off Ibusa Road; the ongoing construction of Chris Abudei Street/Ogbueshi M. Onochie Street; and the reconstruction of Asaba Palace Road off Nnebisi Road by UBA, Phase II.
He commended contractors handling the various projects for the progress recorded so far and urged them to sustain the quality of work while adhering strictly to approved timelines.
Ukah reiterated the commitment of the Delta State Government under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to delivering durable and people-oriented infrastructure projects that enhance residents’ quality of life and drive economic development in line with the administration’s MORE Agenda.
He stressed that the government’s continued investment in critical infrastructure reflects its determination to build a modern, resilient and environmentally sustainable capital territory for present and future generations.
