Construction has officially begun on a multi-purpose dam upstream of the River Dura in Buruku Local Government Area, Benue State, as announced by the Federal Government. This initiative aims to manage the heavy water flow from the region.
On Saturday, Robert Umezulike, Deputy Director of Hydrology at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, shared this information while inspecting the Makurdi-Gboko-Katsina-Ala highway, which had been impacted by flooding from the River Dura.
Umezulike explained that ongoing sediment accumulation in the river has reduced its depth and capacity, contributing to the flooding. He noted that the assessment team would analyze the situation and report back to the Minister for prompt action. “Many of our rivers have become shallow due to sediment deposits, limiting their ability to hold water. Consequently, even minor rainfall can overwhelm these channels and lead to flooding,” he stated.
He highlighted the necessity for a water reservoir upstream of River Dura and confirmed that a contract has already been awarded for the study and design of the dam to help manage water flow.
HRH Mathias Ager, the District Head of Mbaakura Ward, reported that the flooding has submerged homes, farms, and property in the area. He emphasized the urgent need for the government to construct a dam to prevent water from overflowing onto the highway during rains.
Ager also called on the Federal Government to rehabilitate the Makurdi-Gboko-Katsina-Ala road, which is currently cut off near the Abekwa settlement due to the River Dura bridge flooding.
He praised President Bola Tinubu for appointing individuals from Benue to key positions, particularly the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, urging them to support the president’s efforts.
Local youth leader Levinus Tyodoo echoed the demand for road reconstruction to improve access for motorists and facilitate the transportation of agricultural goods.
Motorist Terkimbi Atse expressed his frustration, sharing that he had spent two days navigating a section of the road that should have only taken ten minutes.
