Flash floods have ravaged several parts of Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, submerging homes, roads, estates, markets and business premises and forcing residents to flee their houses.

The flooding, largely attributed to persistent heavy rainfall, left residents stranded in several parts of the city, with some moving mattresses, cooking utensils, and other valuables to safer locations.

Others with nowhere to go were seen seeking higher ground within their compounds, while navigating the floodwaters to carry out essential daily activities.

Homes, offices, markets, hospitals and estates, as well as areas under flyovers, were reportedly overwhelmed by rising floodwaters.

The situation also disrupted academic activities, with students and pupils in some of the worst-hit areas unable to access their schools.

Several major roads became impassable as floodwaters trapped vehicles and left commuters stranded.

Among the areas badly affected were Rukpokwu, Rumuokwuta, Obiwali Road, Peter Odili Road, Eneka, SARS Road, Aba Road, Eliozu, Ozuoba and NTA Road.

In some communities, residents watched helplessly as floodwaters entered their living rooms, destroying property and household belongings.

Some affected residents were seen crying and appealing to the government to declare an emergency and intervene urgently.

The flooding also disrupted social activities, with wedding guests reportedly stunned at the weekend when floodwaters submerged a reception venue.

Heaps of refuse and sewage floating on the floodwaters have further heightened fears of a possible outbreak of diseases among residents.

A resident, who spoke in confidence, called on the government to launch an emergency flood-control programme to tackle the disaster.

She said, “I respectfully appeal for an immediate assessment of these areas and a coordinated flood control programme.

We need more than an emergency approach during a rainy season like this. We need properly connected drainage systems, desilting and widening of major drains, clearing of blocked waterways and culverts, adequate water outlets, and regular maintenance.

“The Local Government Councils should also identify and document flood hotspots within their areas and work with the State Government on permanent interventions.

When the rains stop, the water may disappear, but the underlying problem remains. Let us fix the drainage infrastructure before the next major rainfall.”

Another resident, Tina Ugbo, blamed the development on indiscriminate house construction and encroachment on waterways in the city.

She said, “They have sold lands in Port Harcourt, and sadly, many of our waterways have also been encroached upon. People have knowingly and unknowingly built homes and businesses on areas meant for water to flow.

“Now, the consequences are devastating. Families are being forced out of their homes, businesses are being destroyed, roads are becoming impassable, and people are left stranded, frustrated and helpless.

“I saw the flood this morning, and honestly, I was speechless. Seeing people struggle to get home and protect what they have worked so hard for is heartbreaking.

“We need urgent action, proper drainage, restoration of waterways and a lasting solution to this recurring disaster. My prayers go out to everyone affected. May God protect our people and provide help where it is needed most. Port Harcourt needs help. The people need help.”

Another resident, Meshack Uyi, took to Facebook to vent his frustration, blaming both the people and government for the recurring flooding.

Uyi wrote, “Port Harcourt does not flood because it rains. Port Harcourt floods because leadership has failed. Yes, people are responsible for their actions, but governments are responsible for creating systems that make things work.

“This is Port Harcourt, the heart of Rivers State, the Garden City. If flooding is allowed to happen here, then nowhere is safe. I’ve lived in Port Harcourt for over 20 years, and Port Harcourt has flooded every single year. Governments have changed, but the problem hasn’t. The solutions exist. So why are we still making excuses?

“For decades, governments have looked away while wetlands were sold, waterways were encroached. Planning authorities approve what should never have been approved, while enforcement agencies conveniently look the other way.”

Uyi called for immediate action, saying it was time for stakeholders to stop making excuses over the recurring disaster.

He said, “Declare and permanently protect buffer zones along every major waterway. Demolish every illegal structure obstructing drains and waterways, regardless of who owns it or which party it supports. The law cannot be for the poor alone.

“The same applies to the thousands of unauthorised containers, kiosks, and structures choking our streets and drainage channels. We cannot continue sacrificing an entire city for political patronage.

“The government must take responsibility for proper waste, drainage and flood management. Floodwaters do not recognise political parties. They do not distinguish between rich and poor. Water obeys only nature. It is time for the leaders to do the same.” (This Netion)