The Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei has reiterated the need for a comprehensive multi-sectorial approach to effectively address perennial flooding that continues to cause devastation especially in some parts of Accra.
The sector Minister observed that incidence of heavy flooding that leaves a trail of destruction to livelihoods and in some cases loss of lives cannot be tackled and mitigated by one institution, adding that Ministries such as Roads and Highways, Local Government, and other Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies have collaborative roles to play.
He made these observations when he led a delegation from the Ghana Hydrological Authority to areas heavily hit by flooding incidence following Sunday’s heavy downpour. He visited Old Barrier, Weija, Kokrobite, Ofankor Barrier, Hatso, Adenta.
“For instance, while the Ministry may construct major drains, if MMDAs do not enforce development controls or prevent building on waterways, our efforts will yield limited results. Similarly, if road projects do not include well-maintained drainage systems, we will continue to face recurring flooding events.”He said.
Owing to the need for a multisectorial approach, the Minister said the President has given a clear directive to establish a dedicated taskforce made up of all relevant agencies and stakeholders to develop and implement an integrated and sustainable strategy to address flooding issues once and for all.
“This taskforce will not only harmonize the work of various institutions but will also ensure continuous monitoring, enforcement, and public education.”He added.
The sector Minister also expressed grave worry about indiscriminate dumping of waste into gutters and drains, and the practice of building in waterways, which continue to hamper the efforts of government investments towards flood control.
“No matter how much infrastructure is built, if we do not collectively change our habits, we will continue to suffer the consequences.” He concluded.
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