By Evelyn Obibi-Assay,
The ongoing canal de-silting intervention by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has recorded further progress in Uvwie Local Government Area, with more blocked waterways cleared to enhance drainage flow and tackle recurring flooding.
The exercise continued on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, as DESOPADEC deployed its swamp buggy to critical locations, including Egbe Layout, off Sokoh Estate Road, where deep-seated obstacles obstructing the canal were removed.
A DESOPADEC Media reporter who monitored the operation observed the swamp buggy excavating large boulders buried deep inside the canal. As the massive rocks were removed, water immediately began flowing freely, signalling a breakthrough in restoring the waterway.
By the close of operations, canals on both sides of the road had been opened up, significantly expanding the scope of the flood mitigation effort.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of the Landlords’ Association in the area, Chief Engineer David Odirin Egbe, said the community had suffered years of flooding due to blocked canals and expressed optimism that the removal of the obstructions would provide lasting relief.
He commended the State Government and DESOPADEC for the intervention, while appealing for the completion of the second phase of the bridge project in the area. He added that residents had also continued to collaborate with PSP operators to discourage indiscriminate dumping of waste into the waterways.
A resident and tailor in the area, Oladimeji Jelli, also applauded the exercise, noting that the intervention would reduce the hardship residents face during periods of heavy rainfall.
Meanwhile, the de-silting operation has been completed at Niger Cat area, where residents expressed appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and DESOPADEC for responding to the flooding challenge.
An Uvwie indigene, Mr. Mark Ileleji, said the exercise would bring significant relief to households that regularly experience flooding, adding that residents could now look forward to improved drainage and safer communities.
In Agbarha, the three-day de-silting operation was also concluded with the swamp buggy clearing the canal opposite Agbarha Market through College Road.
The DESOPADEC flood mitigation exercise continues on Thursday, June 25, 2026, as the swamp buggy moves to Olomoro in Isoko South Local Government Area for further canal clearance.
