In a recent development, the Federal Government has pledged to effectively handle the release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo dam, aiming to mitigate the impact of potential flooding. This announcement comes as the nation grapples with the memory of the devastating floods that struck in 2022, marking the worst flooding episode the country has faced in the past ten years.
During an interview on the morning program “Sunrise Daily” on Channels Television, Minister of State for Environment, Ishaq Salako, reassured the public that the government is prepared to address the situation. He noted that while flooding might be inevitable following the dam’s release, steps are being taken to minimize the severity of the floods. Salako pointed out that the current management plan for the dam’s release is expected to result in milder flooding compared to the catastrophic events of the previous year.
Salako emphasized the importance of alerting residents living along the banks of the River Benue, urging them to relocate to higher ground. He explained that the controlled release of water from the dam is a strategic move to prevent even greater damage that could occur if the dam were to overflow uncontrollably.
The Minister revealed ongoing efforts to expedite the construction of an alternative dam in Adamawa State. This new dam aims to store excess water from the Lagdo dam’s release in the coming years. While Salako acknowledged that progress on this project has been slow, he expressed hope that the current administration would prioritize its completion.
Looking forward, Salako highlighted the Ministry of Environment’s improved alarm system, designed to predict flooding occurrences with greater accuracy than in 2022. This enhanced prediction capability is expected to aid in implementing timely preventive measures, reducing damage, and safeguarding lives.
As the government works diligently to manage the situation and reduce the potential impact of flooding, the public is advised to stay informed through reliable sources and heed any evacuation notices issued by relevant authorities. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has also assured citizens that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure public safety during this period of potential flooding.
