Omanghana
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have begun a large-scale demolition exercise targeting illegal structures built on waterways across Accra, as part of a military-supported post-flood recovery operation following the devastating June 29, 2026 floods.
The intervention, carried out under the directive of President John Dramani Mahama, is aimed at permanently restoring blocked drainage systems and reducing the risk of recurring urban flooding in the capital.
Military-Led Demolition of Structures on Waterways
The operation marks a firm enforcement push against unauthorized construction along drainage corridors, which urban planning experts have repeatedly identified as a key driver of flooding in Accra.
Led by the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces, military engineers are systematically removing structures built directly on storm drains and waterways. These include walls, kiosks, and in some cases multi-storey buildings obstructing natural water flow.
Officials say the exercise is being carried out with precision to reopen critical drainage channels and restore proper water movement across flood-prone zones.
High-Risk Areas Under Immediate Focus
Initial demolition and clearance operations are concentrated in some of Accra’s most flood-affected communities, including:
- Kwashieman
- Malam
- Santa Maria
- Sections of the Odaw River catchment area
These locations experienced severe inundation during the June 29 floods, prompting authorities to prioritize them for urgent intervention.
Government briefers have confirmed that structures identified as illegal—particularly those built without approved permits or in defiance of prior demolition notices—will be removed without compensation.
Nationwide Post-Flood Recovery Operation
Beyond demolition activities, the Ghana Armed Forces are spearheading a broader multi-agency clean-up and recovery effort designed to stabilize affected communities.
Drainage De-silting and Waste Removal
Heavy-duty excavators and engineering equipment are working around the clock to clear large volumes of silt, plastic waste, and debris from major drainage systems.
Key waterways under rehabilitation include the Chemu Lagoon and Gbebu Lagoon, both of which were heavily clogged during the flooding event.
Officials say the goal is to restore full flow capacity in these channels ahead of future rainfall.
Public Health and Disease Prevention Measures
In parallel with physical clean-up operations, personnel from the GAF Medical Corps have begun disinfecting flood-affected communities.
The exercise is aimed at reducing health risks associated with stagnant floodwaters and preventing outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera and other infections.
Security Measures and Enforcement Presence
Military personnel have also been deployed across key flood-prone and recently cleared areas to maintain order and prevent re-encroachment.
Authorities say the presence of armed security is intended to deter illegal dumping of waste into newly cleared drains and ensure compliance with environmental enforcement directives.
Joint Task Force Coordination
The operation is being conducted in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and various metropolitan and municipal assemblies.
Officials have emphasized that the military-led task force will remain deployed until all major drainage systems are cleared, restored, and functioning effectively.
Government Vows Long-Term Flood Prevention
Authorities have reiterated that the demolition and clean-up exercise is part of a broader long-term strategy to address Accra’s persistent flooding challenges.
By removing illegal structures, clearing drainage systems, and enforcing stricter urban planning compliance, the government aims to reduce vulnerability to extreme rainfall events and strengthen the city’s climate resilience.
Source: Omanghana
