Prepare for flooding, Lagos tells residents

The Lagos State Government has warned residents of the state to prepare against flooding, resulting from heavy rainfall starting from October 2015.The Permanent Secretary, Ministry for the Environment, Mr. Oluwatoyin Onisarotu, said the warning was to sensitise Lagosians to ensure free flow of water in the drains.

He added that it was also to avert disaster, as a report of the Nigerian Metrological Agency had predicted heavy rainfall in Lagos State.

Onisarotu, who pointed out that the rainy season was not over, appealed to people of the state to clear the drains in the frontage of their houses and environs regularly.

“I advise that people should not panic whenever it rains, as they will start to experience accumulated water concentration in some parts of the roads and highways, depending on the intensity of the rains.

“Those residing along flood plains, low line areas, and other coastlines like Ajegunle, Owode-Onirin, Owode-Elede, Kuramo Beach, Alpha Beach, Okun-Mapo, Okun Ajah, Ijora-Badia, Iwaya, and other low line areas, should be extremely careful.

“Such people may also need to vacate their residence temporarily once they notice gradual accumulation of water; they should move to higher grounds, as the state is not ready to lose any life during the rainy period,” he said.

The permanent secretary, however, assured that the accumulated water would recede in no time.

He said whatever floods were recorded during the rains would gradually be discharged because of the effectiveness of the state’s drainage channels.

He said, “I implore Lagosians to be safety- conscious during this period. Avoid going out during the rains, except only when it is compulsory. Be conscious when driving. Do not speed, and ensure that your vehicles are in good condition. Do not drive through flooded areas, as it might be difficult to identify its depth. Plan your journey before going out and avoid unnecessary outings.”

Onisarotu assured residents that the government would continue to intensify its cleaning and maintenance programme, adding that it would not relent in its efforts at mitigating the effects of the heavy rainfall.

He appealed to residents to join hands with the government in making the state flood-free.