TWO Task Forces to tackle the issue of illegal structures and sanitation problems in three major cities in Delta State, have been set up by the state government. They are the Asaba Capital City Beautification and Sanitation Task Force and the Warri/Effurun Beautification and Sanitation Task Force.
The constitution of both bodies was announced in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, on Friday.
The 20-member Task Force on Asaba city has a former commissioner in former Governor James Ibori�s administration, Mr. Frank Omare, as Chairman, and a director in the Ministry of Information, Mr. Jude Aguonye, as secretary.
Another former member of Ibori�s cabinet, Prof Chike Okolocha, is chairman of the 21-member Warri/Effurun Task Force and Mr. Eric Oteri is the secretary.
The two task forces, according to the statement, are empowered to take appropriate measures to remove all illegal structures, including buildings along Asaba and Warri/Effurun city roads and environs.
Other terms of reference of the task forces are: Taking immediate action to restore the Asaba Capital Territory and Warri/Effurun Territory, Master Plan.
They will also take necessary action for the relocation of mechanics, roadside traders and others to appropriate locations in the territories for their businesses.
The task forces have also been empowered to remove all illegally parked or abandoned vehicles within and around the cities, roads and highways.
The statement said they should initiate and take necessary action, in conjunction with appropriate government agencies for the beautification of the cities.
They are also to liaise with the agencies to effect proper environmental sanitation within and across the cities.
The task forces are also to create suitable structures and synergies to ensure easy movement within and around the cities especially by the reduction of traffic jams and hold-ups.
They are also to enforce government policies on dumping of refuse and waste in and around the cities in partnership with the appropriate authorities.
Lastly, they are to create, maintain and execute a pragmatic plan for the beautification of the cities and sustenance of their ecstatic beauty.
The statement said the task forces which would be inaugurated today, would remain in existence until further notice.