GWARA WATER INCIDENT: HYPREP PC INAUGURATES INDEPENDENT TECHNICAL SUB-COMMITTEE
Further to the need for an expanded technical investigation into the recent Gwara water incident, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), yesterday inaugurated a high-powered Independent Technical Sub-committee for accountability and the prevention of future occurrences.
Members of the Committee include:
1. Engr. Belema Elaine, FNSE (Chairman, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Rivers State Branch)
2. Engr. Power Maeba (Former Rivers State Director of Works)
3. Engr. Obomanu Finisidi (Chairman, Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineers)
4. Engr. Akobo Z.S. Iboroma FNSE (former Chairman, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Rivers State Branch and a veteran lecturer of structural engineering)
Inaugurating the Sub-committee at the Project Coordination Office (PCO) in Port Harcourt, Prof. Zabbey tasked it with undertaking a comprehensive on-site assessment of the structurally failed overhead tank and associated structures, documenting the extent of damage and any safety or environmental concerns.
Similarly, the constitution of the Committee, which is part of the recommendations of the Interim Committee set up by the Project Coordinator on Wednesday, November 5, is guided by other Terms of Reference, viz:
I. Determine the technical, structural, and material features of the failed tank, including evaluation of design specifications, quality of materials used, workmanship, and compliance with engineering standards.
II. Review the supervision mechanisms and quality assurance procedures adopted during design, construction, and installation phases of the facility.
III. Identify any acts of negligence, sabotage, professional misconduct, or lapses in procedure by contractors, supervision consultants, site supervisors and/or third-party interference that may have contributed to the incident.
IV. Provide actionable recommendations for restoration of the facility and water supply to the communities, future prevention strategies, and institutional measures to strengthen water project supervision, as well as HSE compliance.
Consequently, the Committee is expected to complete its assignment within two (2) weeks from today and submit to the Project Coordinator a detailed report which will include findings and recommendations to enable further necessary management action.
Responding, Engr Akobo Iboroma, appreciated the Project Coordinator for engaging the professional bodies and assured of professional and unbiased assessment of the incident.
