The Federal Government, on Thursday, inaugurated a 625-metre drainage channel in Koton-Karfe, Kogi State to prevent flooding as the rainy season approaches.
The project, executed by the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission, was unveiled on Thursday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
The Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Mallam Abubakar Yelwa, said the channel was built for N420m, describing it as a symbol of resilience, unity and collective action.
The SGF, who was represented at the ceremony by his Chief of Staff, Simon Tyungu, called on the people of the community, traditional leaders as well as youth organisations to safeguard the project from vandals.
He noted that the 2022 floods, which ravaged various parts of the country, including Koton-Karfe, brought untold human suffering and economic disruption.
“The repercussions of this disaster were felt far and wide, affecting not only the residents of this community but also disrupting vital routes that connect different regions of our country. The gridlock that ensued here at Koton-Karfe on the Abuja-Lokoja highway served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive flood control measures in this area.
That incident would forever be remembered as one of the tragic moments when one of the most important roads linking the northern and southern parts of the country got submerged by floodwaters.
“It was in the light of these pressing realities that the Federal Government, through N-HYPPADEC, took decisive action to address the root causes of flooding and mitigate its impact here in Kogi and other states where the commission operates,” the SGF said.
He said the construction of the Koton- Karfe Flood Control Project exemplified President Bola Tinubu’s resolve to ameliorate the sufferings of the people.
“On this note, I commend the entire management team of N-HYPPADEC, with special acknowledgment to the Managing Director, for their tireless efforts in ensuring the successful completion of this project.
“With the inauguration of this critical infrastructure, and the commitment of the commission to replicate efforts like these in other flood-prone communities, we can look forward to a future where the spectre of devastating floods no longer looms over our communities.
“This project aligns with the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. It is one of the several markers signifying that we are moving into a new era of resilience and progress for our nation,” he said.
Speaking, the Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Yelwa, said, “The drainage spans a total length of 625 metres, comprising various components. We have integrated a line stretching 499.5 metres, complemented by an earth drain of 125.5 metres.
Intersecting these drains are four double cell culverts, strategically placed to facilitate water flow. To enhance accessibility within the vicinity, we have incorporated three pedestrian bridges for safer passage of residents and commuters.
“Additionally, to manage surface runoff efficiently, inlet block line drains totalling 161 metres have been installed along the drainage route, with a stone-pitched area of 550 metres to avoid erosion and ensure longevity and stability in the face of harsh weather conditions.”
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