Nairobi residents along riparian land urged to move to safer places ahead of long rains
Past rainy seasons have caused severe flooding in the city, leading to water entering homes, blocking roads, and damaging property.
As heavy rains begin in Nairobi, residents living along riparian areas have been advised to move at least 30 meters away from riverbanks to avoid flood-related risks.
Nairobi County Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria urged residents to take necessary precautions to minimise the effects of extreme rainfall.
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“The rains have started, so be careful and ensure that the drainage system around your residential area is free of garbage and unclogged. Those who live near the river should move 30 meters away on both sides,” he said in a Friday night advisory.
Residents have also been instructed not to dump garbage along roads, as this contributes to clogged drainage systems and increased flooding in residential areas.
Past rainy seasons have caused severe flooding in the city, leading to water entering homes, blocking roads, and damaging property.
Clogged drainages
“Ensure that the drainage system around your residential area is free of garbage and unclogged,” Mosiria said.
According to the city Environment officer, poor waste disposal practices by residents have been a major contributor to flooding.
“The problem is the people of Nairobi; people leave their houses with solid waste; instead of taking it to the transfer points, they dump it in the drainage systems, blocking them and causing the floods,” Mosiria said.
He urged environmentalists to collaborate with the county government in cleaning up residential areas to mitigate the impact of heavy rains.
He also called for collective responsibility from residents, environmentalists, and the county government to prevent the city from being severely affected.
Mosiria stated that the county government will work with youth under the Climate WorX project to ensure Nairobi remains clean during the rainy season.
For residents facing flooding, Mosiria advised them to contact the county through the emergency number 1508 for immediate assistance.
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