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President John Dramani Mahama has directed the National Disaster Management Organisation and a national task force to undertake a comprehensive assessment of protected lands, restricted zones and waterways across Accra as part of efforts to address the capital’s persistent flooding problem.
Speaking during a brief interaction with members of his cabinet at the Accra International Airport upon his return from official visits to the United Kingdom and Belarus on Tuesday, June 9, the President said the teams had been tasked with identifying encroached areas and lands that are not designated for development.
“I have directed the task force, NADMO and all the others to do a presentation to us. We are going to identify all the restricted waterways,” he stated.
According to President Mahama, the assessment will provide government with a detailed report on vulnerable and illegally occupied areas, enabling authorities to take the necessary measures to protect designated zones and reduce the risk of future flooding.
“When they have done that, I am giving the directive that they should go ahead to do what they have to do,” he said.
The President stressed that the exercise forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen enforcement of planning regulations, protect lives and property, and prevent further encroachment on waterways and other protected lands.
He indicated that some of the actions arising from the assessment could involve difficult decisions, including the removal of structures that obstruct waterways or occupy restricted areas.
While acknowledging that such measures may attract criticism, Mr Mahama urged the public to view them as necessary interventions aimed at ensuring public safety and building a more resilient and sustainable city.
“I hope when we do that, all Ghanaians will understand that it is the government’s responsibility to protect the safety of all of us,” he noted.
The directive comes amid renewed concerns over flooding in Accra following recent heavy rains that have caused significant damage to property and disrupted livelihoods in several communities across the capital.
Source:Omanghana.com
