Community urged to plant trees amidst heavy rains and flooding in Amolatar district

31 October 2025, 1:00 pm

By Sarah Ejang

In light of the recent heavy rains affecting Amolatar District, Mr. Francis Ojok, the district production officer, has urged the local community to take proactive measures by utilizing the available rainfall to plant trees.

His call to action comes as many areas as possible within the district are grappling with flooding, a situation exacerbated by changing climate patterns.

According to Mr. Ojok, the seasons have shifted, leading to increased downpours that frequently inundate low-lying regions.

Mr. Ojok emphasized the importance of selecting appropriate tree species, particularly in flood-prone areas, as a strategic approach to mitigate both current and future flooding risks.

Tree planting not only helps absorb excess rainwater but also contributes to restoring the ecosystem, offering long-term benefits for the community.

However, the environmental challenges facing Amolatar extend beyond weather patterns. Mr. Ocen Erick, the district environment officer, highlighted that the flooding crisis is significantly influenced by encroachment on wetlands.

This encroachment restricts natural water absorption and exacerbates runoff during heavy rains. He noted that many homes are situated in low-lying regions, and several farmers have built structures along water lines, which further impedes the natural flow of water.

The ongoing floods have already caused substantial damage within the district, impacting vital road connections and disrupting daily life for residents.

The combination of environmental neglect and climate variability necessitates a concerted effort from the community to address these pressing issues.

As the residents of Amolatar witness the consequences of flooding, the calls from both Mr. Ojok and Mr. Erick serve as an urgent reminder of the intertwining relationship between human activities and environmental health.

By adopting sustainable practices, such as tree planting and careful land management, the community can work toward a more resilient future despite the adversities posed by climate change and flooding.