By Helen Okechukwu For UDEME
FLOODING AND inadequate drainage remain a major concern for residents using the newly reconstructed Aker Base Road in Rivers State.
Despite the Rivers State Government allocating N216,695,123.15 million for the reconstruction project in the 2022 state budget, issues persist.
During a media visit, it was observed that while the road had been completed with streetlights installed, parts of the drainage system were overgrown with grass, and the road lacked a signpost providing project details.
Residents, including local tricycle riders, expressed concerns over the poor construction of the drainage system, which has led to flooding during heavy rains.
One resident, Daniel Odan, stated that the narrow drainage system causes water to overflow into nearby residential compounds during rainfall.
According to him, “The road is generally good for driving, but the drainage is not wide enough.
When it rains, the water overflows into people’s homes.”
Odan also pointed out that the streetlights have not been functioning since their installation, except for those provided by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
He added that some accidents on the road are caused by reckless driving, but poor visibility due to non-functional streetlights has also contributed to the issue.
The project, executed through the Ministry of Works, was intended to improve the infrastructure in the area, but the persistent problems have left residents feeling dissatisfied.
Local commuters and residents hope the state government will address the drainage issues and ensure the streetlights function properly, to prevent further accidents and flooding.
