Lagos State Government Cracks Down on Illegal Dredgers, Orders Immediate Stoppage of Operations
In a bid to curb environmental degradation and promote sustainable development, the Lagos State Government has launched a massive clampdown on illegal dredgers operating in the state. The exercise, which was carried out by officials of the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, resulted in the shutdown of several illegal dredging sites and the arrest of suspected dredging operators.
The enforcement operation, led by Hon. Ekundayo Alebiosu, Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, was a response to the growing concerns about the environmental impact of illegal dredging activities in the state. The Commissioner, who was accompanied by members of his team, raided several illegal dredging sites, serving stop-work orders on erring dredgers for non-compliance with state regulations.
According to Alebiosu, the Lagos State Government has vowed to streamline the activities of dredgers in the state to meet acceptable international standards. He emphasized that the government will no longer tolerate the destructive activities of illegal dredgers, which have been linked to environmental degradation, erosion, and flooding in the state.
"The Lagos State Government's clampdown on illegal dredgers is a significant step towards protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development in the state," Alebiosu said. "We will continue to carry out surveillance and raids across the coastal areas to ensure that the activities of a few don't impact the lives of law-abiding citizens negatively."
Alebiosu warned that failure to comply with extant laws guiding dredging activities could have dire effects and result in severe penalties, including total closure of the sites. He emphasized the need for dredging activities to be conducted lawfully to preserve roads, public infrastructure, and wetlands.
The Commissioner also reacted to claims that dredgers are the major cause of environmental degradation in the state, including erosion and flooding. He acknowledged that while dredging activities are necessary for economic development, they must be carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.
"The Lagos State Government is committed to finding a balance between economic development and environmental protection," Alebiosu said. "We will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that dredging activities are carried out in a way that minimizes harm to the environment and promotes sustainable development."
The clampdown on illegal dredgers is part of the Lagos State Government's efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainable development.
The government has also launched initiatives to clean up the state's waterways, restore wetlands, and promote eco-friendly practices.
As the Lagos State Government continues to crack down on illegal dredgers, residents of the state can expect to see significant improvements in the environment and quality of life. The government's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development is a welcome development, and it is hoped that other states will follow suit.
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