WARRI SOUTH: Delta State Taskforce on Environment Warns Against Indiscriminate Dumping of Refuse in Drainages and Waterways
As the rainy season intensifies, the Delta State Taskforce on Environment has once again cautioned residents and business operators against the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels and waterways, stressing that such acts could lead to severe flooding and outbreaks of diseases across the state.
The Chairman of the State Taskforce on Environment, Chief Godspower Omafuvwe Asiuwhu JP, issued the warning yesterday during an enforcement exercise at Okumagba Avenue and Estate Roundabout in Warri South Local Government Area.
Chief Asiuwhu expressed deep concern over the persistent habit of traders and food vendors—particularly those operating at night—dumping waste and wastewater directly into the drains. He described the act as wicked and harmful to the environment and charged them to immediately evacuate waste from the drains and stop the practice of indiscriminate disposal.
As part of the enforcement, traders who displayed their wares in filthy surroundings were instructed to clean and sweep their environment before resuming business.
The Chairman emphasized that halting the dumping of waste into water channels, gutters, and rivers is critical in averting preventable disasters such as flooding, especially as the rainy season progresses.
Chief Asiuwhu commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his administration’s unwavering commitment to environmental sanitation. He noted that the governor’s support for the taskforce aligns with his Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda, aimed at ensuring a cleaner, healthier Delta State.
He called on residents to support the state’s environmental efforts, urging full compliance with environmental laws to tackle the challenges posed by human activities in the pursuit of economic growth. According to him, a clean environment is key to public health and better living conditions.
The taskforce, he assured, will intensify operations and remain vigilant. He warned that anyone caught dumping refuse indiscriminately in drainages, roadways, or waterways will be apprehended and prosecuted accordingly.
The enforcement operation was led by the Warri and Environs Coordinator, Comrade Frank Orogun, in collaboration with the Warri South Local Government Council.
