The Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has intensified its flood response efforts across Jos, with ongoing desilting and drainage clearance exercises aimed at improving the free flow of stormwater and reducing the impact of flash flooding in vulnerable communities.
As part of the intervention, the Director General of the Agency, Mr Samuel Dapiya conducted an inspection of critical locations to assess conditions on the ground and coordinate immediate response efforts following recent rainfall.
One of the sites visited was the drainage corridor from Miango Junction to Educare Private School, where PEPSA personnel carried out extensive desilting and clearing of drainage channels that had become filled with sand and other debris. According to the Agency, the intervention is expected to improve the discharge of stormwater, while the area will continue to be monitored after subsequent rainfall to determine whether additional engineering or environmental measures may be required.
The response team also moved to Lugard Road by UTC, where a major culvert had become blocked, restricting the flow of water and causing floodwater to overflow onto the road. The situation resulted in traffic congestion and affected the movement of motorists, businesses, and other road users until the blockage was cleared.
Speaking during the exercise, PEPSA noted that while heavy rainfall is a natural occurrence, the condition of drainage channels plays a significant role in how effectively stormwater is conveyed. The Agency observed that drains and culverts function best when they remain free of obstructions, allowing water to flow without restriction.
PEPSA reiterated that protecting drainage infrastructure is a shared responsibility, urging residents, businesses, and motorists to adopt proper waste disposal practices and make use of designated community waste collection or drop-off points rather than disposing of refuse in drainage channels, culverts, waterways, or open spaces.
The Agency also encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and report activities that may obstruct drainage systems or pose risks to the environment, emphasizing that collective action is essential to maintaining a cleaner, safer, and healthier Plateau State.
PEPSA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and public infrastructure through timely environmental interventions and sustained sanitation efforts, while calling on all residents to partner with the Agency in promoting responsible environmental practices across the state.
