The federal government has identified blocked manholes, accumulated silt, solid waste and poor maintenance of underground drainage infrastructure as major factors responsible for the flash flood in some parts of Abuja.

This is contained in a technical report on the incident by the ministry of environment issued by Usman Bokani, the Director of Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management in the ministry.

The ministry warned that the flooding was not merely the result of intense rainfall but was significantly worsened by restrictions within the underground stormwater drainage system.

It said the incident exposed a wider drainage infrastructure management challenge in Abuja City Centre.

“The technical team found several manholes and drainage inlets blocked by silt, solid waste and debris, restricting water flow and causing hydraulic surcharge, backflow and surface flooding during intense rainfall.

“The assessment also detected sewage-contaminated water at several locations, suggesting possible cross-connections, damaged or illicit connections, or inadequate maintenance of drainage and wastewater infrastructure,” the ministry said.

The ministry recommended a city-wide preventive maintenance programme, regular pre-rainy-season inspections, a digital register of drainage assets and flood hotspots, and joint monitoring by relevant FCT authorities and the ministry.

The ministry said proactive drainage management, rather than emergency responses alone, is necessary to restore hydraulic functionality, reduce sewage backflow and strengthen Abuja’s resilience against recurrent flash flooding.

(NAN)