Kano Begins Massive Drainage Desiltation to Avert Flooding
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — The Kano State Government on Thursday launched a large-scale drainage desiltation exercise across the Kano metropolis to prevent flooding and protect critical road infrastructure following the heavy rainfall witnessed in recent weeks.
The operation, being carried out by the Kano Roads Maintenance Agency (KARMA), comes after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf approved the immediate clearance of major drainage channels blocked by silt, refuse and other debris that have disrupted the free flow of stormwater.
KARMA in a statement posted on its Facebookpage explained that the intervention is aimed at restoring drainage efficiency, reducing the risk of flash floods and ensuring uninterrupted movement of vehicles and pedestrians during the peak of the rainy season.
The agency said work is currently ongoing along several major corridors, including Emir’s Palace Road, Sheikh Ja’afar Road, Hadejia Road, Murtala Muhammad Way, Ahmadu Bello Way, France Road, Aminu Kano Way, the Rimi Market area, Yankura Road in Gandu Layout, Gwarzo Road, BUK Road and the Dorayi section of Sheikh Ja’afar Road.
KARMA said the desiltation exercise reflects the state government’s commitment to proactive infrastructure maintenance and environmental management, stressing that keeping drainage channels free of obstructions is essential to mitigating flood-related damage.
The agency appealed to residents, traders and motorists to cooperate with maintenance personnel by observing safety measures around work sites and avoiding activities that could hamper the exercise.
It also urged members of the public to desist from dumping refuse into drainage channels, warning that indiscriminate waste disposal remains one of the leading causes of blocked drains and flooding in urban communities.
The agency assured residents that the exercise would be sustained in other parts of the metropolis as part of ongoing efforts to improve drainage infrastructure and build a more flood-resilient Kano.