TSEMA Unveils Flood Control Strategy In Taraba

The Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (TSEMA) has rolled out proactive measures to mitigate flooding and protect residents in vulnerable communities ahead of the peak rainy season.

The agency said it is intensifying preparedness efforts to prevent recurring flood disasters across the state, including planned relocation of residents in high-risk riverine areas to safer locations.

Executive Secretary of TSEMA, Dr. Echuseh Audu, disclosed that the state government had already commenced early flood preparedness strategies as part of broader disaster risk reduction efforts.

Speaking through the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Confidence Bitrus Bello, Dr. Audu said flood-prone communities had been mapped out across the state, alongside sensitisation campaigns aimed at educating residents on flood risks and emergency response procedures.

According to her, continuous assessments are also being carried out in vulnerable areas to identify emerging threats and strengthen intervention plans before flooding escalates.

“We are working proactively to ensure that residents in high-risk areas are relocated to safer environments before the situation worsens beyond control,” she said.

As part of its intervention strategy, TSEMA recently deployed officials to assess communities affected by early rainfall and flooding in parts of Jalingo, including Nasarawo Kwalbati, Tecnobat, Green Beach and the Mayo Dassa axis.

The assessment team, led by Director of Administration, Mr. Sani Maisukwati, and Director of Technical Services, Mr. Bakari Kwanchi, evaluated the extent of damage caused by flooding and identified areas requiring urgent intervention.

Dr. Audu said findings from the assessment would guide the distribution of relief materials, emergency response operations and future flood mitigation projects.

She added that arrangements were underway to provide temporary shelters and basic relief materials for persons who may be displaced during evacuation exercises.

The TSEMA boss also urged residents to support government efforts by clearing blocked drainage channels and avoiding construction or settlement along waterways.

She warned that flooding remains a recurring challenge in Taraba State, stressing that community cooperation and early compliance with evacuation directives would be crucial in reducing loss of lives and property during the rainy season.

In a related development, TSEMA said it had evacuated victims of recent flood disasters in four communities in Jen Ward, Karim Lamido Local Government Area, and relocated them to safer locations, while also providing relief support.

During a visit to the affected communities, the Executive Secretary, represented by Mr. Sani Maisukwati, conveyed Governor Agbu Kefas’ sympathy and assured residents of continued government support.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of citizens, pledging sustained assistance to flood-affected households.