Anambra: Residents cry for help as flood destroys shops

Anambra map

A devastating flood triggered by heavy rainfall on Tuesday has destroyed goods and properties around Zik Avenue, Iweka Road, by the popular Ochanja Market near Onitsha, Anambra State.

PUNCH Metro reports that the area is home to top business enterprises and commercial activities, housing many shops but the flood displaced some traders from their shops and destroyed some goods and wares, resulting in significant losses.

Our correspondent, who monitored the area on Wednesday, gathered that the flood, caused by blocked drainage, covered the whole stretch of the Zik Avenue, caught residents and traders off guard and halted commercial activities throughout the day while people remained indoors to avoid being swept away.

Also, in videos currently circulating online monitored by our correspondent, residents and traders were seen struggling to salvage some of their goods and properties as the flood kept raging into their shops.

A tricycle operator could be seen trying to rescue his tricycle from the flood while the raging flood kept dragging it backwards, while other residents and traders were also seen taking refuge at safe corners.

When our correspondent earlier visited the area on Wednesday, some residents and traders were seen scooping floodwaters from their houses and shops while some of them who shared their harrowing experiences called on the state government for intervention.

A resident identified simply as Uchenna said, “This area is near the River Niger. Any mistake will lead to the flood sweeping someone into the river. That is why whenever it is raining, people are advised to steer clear of the road to avoid being swept away.

“The rain was devastating. We have not experienced this kind of flooding in this area and with the prediction of NiMET of impending flooding in the months to come, the worst may not have come yet.