By Nzesi Boniface Ossai
The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has extended its flood mitigation and environmental intervention programme to Ndokwa West Local Government Area, commencing a major de-silting and drainage clearance exercise in Kwale, the council headquarters.
The exercise, which began on Monday, June 22, 2026, focused on major streets in Kwale, including Apa Street and Alamaossai Street, where blocked drainage channels were cleared to prevent flooding ahead of the peak rainfall season.
The intervention forms part of DESOPADEC’s broader environmental management programme targeted at oil-producing communities across Delta State, aimed at improving drainage systems, restoring water flow and reducing the impact of flooding on residents.
Officials from the Department of Environment and the Ndokwa West Local Government Council supervised the operation, monitored the progress of the work, ensured compliance with environmental standards, and maintained safety during the exercise.
During the operation, sanitation workers, environmental personnel and artisans were seen clearing blocked drainages, removing accumulated silt, weeds and waste materials that had restricted the free flow of water through the drainage channels.
Residents of the affected areas expressed relief as the combined efforts of manual workers and equipment reopened waterways ahead of increased rainfall, describing the exercise as a timely intervention.
Environmental officials involved in the exercise said the project is designed to reduce flood risks, improve public health and restore proper drainage flow across Kwale township.
They, however, stressed the need for residents to support the initiative by avoiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels, warning that improper waste disposal remains a major cause of blocked waterways and flooding.
Some community members around Apa Street and Alamaossai Street recalled previous flooding challenges which affected movement and caused damage to roadside structures during heavy rains, expressing optimism that the current intervention would provide lasting relief.
A representative of the supervising environmental team, Mr. Kingsley Iweka, said DESOPADEC’s intervention in Ndokwa West was being implemented in phases, covering major roads, inner streets and identified flood-prone areas.
He explained that the exercise was part of a coordinated effort to ensure safer and cleaner communities in line with the state government’s environmental management objectives.
“The intervention is being carried out systematically to address areas where drainage challenges have contributed to flooding. The cooperation of residents will be critical in sustaining the impact of the exercise,” Iweka said.
The de-silting operation is expected to continue in other parts of Kwale in the coming days as DESOPADEC intensifies efforts to strengthen flood resilience and improve environmental conditions across Ndokwa West Local Government Area.
