President John Mahama has urged the general public to refrain from constructing buildings on waterways to prevent disasters such as flooding.
Speaking during the Eid al-Fitr ceremony at the Black Star Square in Accra on Monday, 31 March, Mahama called on Ghanaians to act responsibly to protect the environment and safeguard lives and property from natural calamities.
According to him, the issue that is common in urban areas in the country is now “deeply troubling.”
“I must address a deeply troubling issue, the illegal construction of buildings on waterways, causing flooding and extensive destruction of properties. As we know, the rain is about to start, and already we can see flooding.”
He stressed that “People have built and blocked the rivers, and so the rivers have nowhere to go but to back up. This reckless disregard of planning regulations and environmental safety is a major contributor to the devastating floods that continue to plague our communities.”
The president’s call comes amid the increasing threat of flooding in various parts of the country, especially in Accra.
He also mentioned that he is aware of some traditional leaders who, out of self-interest, allow some private persons to build on waterways and ramsar sites.
Flooding has been a recurrent issue in Ghana, with the capital city, Accra, experiencing severe flooding incidents due to the encroachment on waterways, poor drainage systems and indiscriminate dumping of waste.
The city’s rapid urbanisation and uncontrolled construction on waterways have contributed to blocking the natural flow of water, resulting in flash floods during the rainy season.
In June 2015, Accra witnessed one of its most devastating floods and fire disasters, which claimed over 150 lives and left thousands of people displaced. The floods were partly caused by the overflowing of the Odaw River, exacerbated by illegal construction activities along its banks.
The President’s warning underscores the importance of sustainable development practices and the urgent need to address the country’s infrastructure challenges, including building proper drainage systems.
He emphasised,” Let’s be clear, this must stop, these structures must be pulled down. We will not allow a few selfish individuals to endanger the lives and livelihoods of countless others. The law will be enforced and those who flaunt it will face consequences.”
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