Flooding: Bauchi Assembly Seeks Desilting Of Drainages

Bauchi State House of Assembly has  passed a resolution calling on the Executive arm of government  to approve and implement the rehabilitation, desilting and construction of drainage systems in the Bauchi metropolis to address the recurring flooding and environmental challenges.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion moved by the deputy speaker, Jamilu Umaru Dahiru, who raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of drainage infrastructure, which he said, had continued to expose the residents to flooding, property destruction and serious health risks, especially during the rainy season.

Presenting the motion, the lawmaker explained that several communities, including Jahun, Unguwan Mu’azu, Kanpan Lala, Zango and areas along Gombe Road, have been severely affected by blocked and collapsed drainage systems, leading to disruptions in economic and social activities.

He further disclosed that engineering experts, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and the House Committee on Works, had carried out a detailed assessment of the affected areas, resulting in a comprehensive Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation for the proposed intervention projects.

According to him, the total cost of executing the drainage rehabilitation and construction is about N62 million, noting that timely intervention would significantly improve water flow, reduce flooding, and safeguard both public and private infrastructure.

Presiding over the sitting, the Speaker Abubakar Sulaiman, commended the lawmaker for raising the motion and mandated the House Committee on Works to liaise with the Executive Arm of Government to ensure prompt action on the resolution.

Meanwhile, the House also considered other motions, including a call to review the administrative placement of the State Fire Service and return it to the Ministry of Works to enhance operational efficiency and emergency response.

In another development, lawmakers urged the Executive Arm to re-establish Science Secondary School Dass, to promote science and technology education, while a communication from Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed on the amendment of Aminu Saleh College of Education Bill was referred to the Committee on Rules and Business for further legislative action.