By Bonaventure Alufo
For many residents of Anambra State, a journey that should take just 15 minutes often stretches into hours, especially during the morning and evening rush. While population growth contributes to traffic congestion, another major cause is the increasing encroachment on public roads, setbacks and drainage channels by illegal structures.
Across major cities in the state, buildings, fences, kiosks and other developments have gradually taken over spaces meant for public access and infrastructure. Some property owners extend their fences into road corridors, while others erect structures on drainage channels, creating obstacles that hinder movement and violate urban planning regulations.
Public roads and setbacks are not vacant lands available for private use. They are critical components of urban development, deliberately reserved to accommodate future road expansion, facilitate proper drainage, and ensure unrestricted access for emergency services such as ambulances and fire trucks. When these spaces are occupied unlawfully, the consequences affect everyone.
Blocked drainage channels increase the risk of flooding, while narrowed roads worsen traffic congestion. More importantly, emergency responders may be unable to reach accident scenes, fire outbreaks or medical emergencies in time, putting lives and property at risk.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Chijioke Ojukwu, has reiterated the state's commitment to enforcing planning regulations through the ongoing "Operation Show Your Physical Planning Permit" initiative. During sensitisation visits across major cities in the state, he warned that structures obstructing access roads and designated setbacks would be removed without exception.
According to the commissioner, the deadline for compliance will not be extended, stressing that enforcement is backed by the Anambra State Physical Planning and Building Control Law, as well as the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act.
Some violators often justify their actions by citing the high cost of land or arguing that others are doing the same. However, such excuses do not lessen the dangers posed by obstructed roads. When emergency vehicles cannot reach their destinations, the consequences can be devastating. A delayed ambulance response or an inaccessible route for firefighters can turn a manageable emergency into a tragedy.
The impact of road obstruction extends beyond individual property owners. Businesses lose valuable time and resources in traffic gridlocks. Perishable goods spoil during delays. Investors are discouraged by poorly planned and congested urban environments. Conversely, when residents comply with approved setbacks and planning regulations, traffic flows more efficiently, communities become safer and property values improve.
This is therefore a collective call to action for developers, landlords, community leaders, town unions and prospective landowners. Before purchasing land or commencing any building project, it is important to verify approved layouts, obtain the necessary permits and strictly observe designated setbacks.
Urban planning regulations are not designed to punish residents; they exist to create orderly, safe and sustainable communities for present and future generations.
Roads belong to everyone. Keeping them open and accessible is a shared responsibility. By complying with physical planning laws, residents can contribute to safer cities, improved infrastructure, and the continued development of Anambra State in line with the vision of Governor Chukwuma Soludo to build a livable and prosperous homeland.
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