Mombasa to demolish buildings as El Nino begins

Just a few hours after some parts of the coast region started witnessing heavyrains, the County Government of Mombasa has embarked on a major operation to unclog the drainage system in the county.

The exercise will also include the demolition of all houses believed to have been constructed along the drainage systems.

Speaking to journalists at Bamburi area, Mombasa Lands and Town Planning County Executive Committee member Francis Thoya said the process intends to ensure no more destruction of property during the heavy down pour.

He insisted that if the structures remain uncleared they will interfere with movement of water, something likely to cause floods and paralyze operations in the area.

He further instructed tenants living in buildings constructed along the drainage systems to vacate immediately, before the county government bulldozers descend on them.

Thoya said the county government has set a side Ksh 100 million emergency fund in case of any eventuality.

This comes only a day after the County Government ordered over 2,000 fishermen operating along the coastline to keep off from the ocean during the EL Nino.

Leaders in different counties have already started operations ahead of El Nino.

Areas expected to be most affected by the El Nino rains and consequent floods include Narok, Nairobi, Elgeyo Marakwet, Tana River, Lake Bogoria Basin, Homa Bay, Isiolo, Kilifi, Budalangi and Nyando regions.

According to Nairobi Governor Dr. Evans Kidero, response and emergency teams have been established in all the sub counties within the City to undertake various activities to ensure minimal damage to property and risks to safety during this period.

In a statement, Kidero said given the expected magnitude of the risks expected, there is need to involve and partner with all residents and property owners in ensuring maximum preparation prior to and during the El-Nino period in order to mitigate the impact of the El-Nino phenomenon.

In the statement, the Governor as all property owners and residents to remove all siltation and other deposits in the open drains, adjacent or within their respective premises as well as clear all shrubs which have potential to occasion blockages and/or free flow of water.

“No prior authority for these works will be required and all such property owners and residents may receive specific orders to undertake the works herein at their expense,” read the statement in part.

“Let us work together to save lives and property during the impending El Nino phenomenon,” added Kidero.

Last week, National Disaster Operations Centre Director Nathan Kigotho  said about 2.5 million school going children might be affected by the El Nino expected to commence in October and until January next year.