By Saskia Warrick
Water levels in Linden are receding following swift intervention by the government after the town experienced significant flooding due to an unusual amount of rainfall in Region 10.
Approximately 4.5 inches of water were recorded, causing widespread inundation.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha attributed the flooding to the lack of preparedness by the Regional Democratic Council and the municipality for the rainy season.
However, rapid actions were taken by the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, along with assistance from the Bosai Minerals Group, to clear the drainage systems, allowing the floodwaters to recede.
Minister Mustapha emphasized the importance of local government authorities and residents taking proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of future flooding.
He called on both parties to play their part in maintaining and improving drainage infrastructure to prevent similar incidents.
Meanwhile, the local hydrometeorological office is forecasting intensified rainfall over the next few weeks.
In response, the Ministry of Agriculture is working across various regions to reduce the risk of flooding.
Efforts include monitoring the operation of pumps and implementing other flood mitigation measures.
In the capital city, the Ministry is collaborating with communities to clear internal drains.
Minister Mustapha reminded that maintaining these drains remains the responsibility of the City Council.
Additionally, three engineers are tasked with daily monitoring of the pumps and other interventions that have been put in place to manage water levels.