John Charles The Federal Government has announced that it has commenced work on the construction of a multi-purpose dam upstream of the River Dura in the Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State to contain the heavy water that flows from that axis. The Deputy Director of Hydrology at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Robert Umezulike, disclosed this on Saturday while assessing the Makurdi-Gboko-Katsina-Ala highway, which was affected by the overflow of the River Dura that spilt onto the road. Umezulike stated that the flood was caused by continuous sediment deposits in the river, which have reduced its depth and capacity to hold water.
He explained that the assessment team would evaluate the flood situation and report to the Minister for immediate action. He said, “Over time, many of our rivers have become shallow due to sediment deposits in the water channels, which reduces their capacity to contain water. Consequently, when there is even a small amount of rain, the channels can become overwhelmed, resulting in flooding.
“Based on our observations, there is a need for a water reservoir upstream of the River Dura. In this regard, the ministry has already awarded a contract for the study and design of a multi-purpose dam that will help contain the water flowing from that axis.” Speaking to journalists, the District Head of Mbaakura Ward, HRH Mathias Ager, reported that the flood has also submerged homes, farms, and property in the area.
Ager indi.