In a bid to curb the perennial flooding plaguing the Mallam Junction area, President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the demolition of all structures built along natural waterways in the Weija Gbawe Municipality. The directive comes after a recent inspection tour of flood-prone regions in Accra, where Mahama met with city engineers, municipal authorities, and local residents to assess the situation.
The President expressed his deep concern over the unchecked construction of buildings on flood channels, highlighting that such developments have significantly contributed to the area’s flooding crisis, resulting in loss of life and extensive property damage.
“Why did the assembly allow this to happen?” Mr. Mahama questioned as he addressed city engineers and local authorities. “These are waterways! Can you imagine how much water could flow through this place during heavy rains? The drains here simply can’t handle that volume, and filling these areas with buildings makes the situation worse.”
The flooding problem at Mallam Junction, a low-lying area, has been an ongoing challenge for years. Experts point to a combination of inadequate drainage systems, waste mismanagement, and the encroachment of buildings on natural floodplains as the key drivers of the crisis. Despite several previous demolition exercises, illegal constructions continue to worsen the situation.
President Mahama’s latest order underscores the urgent need for effective urban planning and the enforcement of regulations to prevent further environmental destruction and safeguard the lives and property of residents. With flooding remaining a major issue across Accra, particularly in areas like Odawna, Kaneshie, and Circle, residents and experts alike are calling for more decisive action to tackle the problem at its root.
As the demolition begins, Mahama’s government aims to clear the way for improved flood management and more sustainable development in the region. But the question remains: will this latest intervention finally put an end to the cycle of flooding, or is it just another temporary fix to a deep-rooted problem?
Source:TheDotNews