The Anambra State Government has warned residents that it will strictly enforce regulations requiring proper drainage systems in homes, following the escalating menace of gully erosion across the state.

The State Executive Council (ANSEC) expressed concern that erosion poses a serious threat to lives, property, and infrastructure, attributing the worsening situation to careless practices by some communities and lapses in regulatory oversight.

Speaking after the weekly council meeting, Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, noted that residents who channel storm water directly onto roads exacerbate the erosion problem.

“ANSEC has resolved to step up enforcement to compel residents to properly manage storm water from their homes. Communities must also comply with guidelines, including constructing erosion barriers and excavating sand only in approved areas,” Mefor stated.

He added that the government would establish a committee to recover illegally occupied government lands, following reports of widespread encroachment.

Meanwhile, ANSEC approved funding for several key infrastructure projects across the state. Highlights include:

• ₦95.2 million for water supply to the Ekwulobia flyover bridge fountain and ornamental garden.
• ₦172 million for landscaping the car park of the new Trauma Centre at COOUTH, Amaku, Awka.
• ₦93.4 million for installing a three-way traffic light with pedestrian signals at Ifite-Amenyi intersection, Awka.
• ₦50.4 million for two 10kVA inverters with 15kW lithium batteries at the Civil Service Commission building, Awka.
• ₦119.1 million for transformer substations in Nnewi and Umueze-Anam communities.

The government’s move underscores its commitment to mitigating erosion risks while ensuring proper urban planning and infrastructure development across Anambra State.