Recurring flooding in parts of Tema West has been blamed on persistent encroachment on waterways, poor drainage planning, and uncontrolled urban development, with disaster management officials warning that the situation could worsen if urgent measures are not taken.
Speaking on Ahotor 92.3 FM’s Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show hosted by Nana Dogbe, the Technical Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation, Loretta Nanahemaa Nhyira Frimpong, explained that stormwater from higher elevations, including the Aburi and Akuapem mountains, naturally flows through drainage channels into the Ramsar wetland area before gradually emptying into the sea.
According to her, the Ramsar site plays a vital environmental role by serving as a natural flood control and water collection zone for the municipality. However, she noted that years of unauthorized construction and human activities on waterways and wetlands have significantly disrupted the free flow of water.
She explained that many residents continue to put up structures without proper permits, despite designated layouts and planning regulations established by the assembly. As a result, drainage channels have become heavily obstructed, contributing to severe flooding during heavy rains in communities such as Kanewu and Sakumono.
Loretta Nanahemaa Nhyira Frimpong stressed that water cannot be permanently stopped from following its natural course. She warned that whenever waterways are blocked, floodwaters will eventually force their way through homes, roads, and communities, leading to destruction of property and displacement of residents.
She also expressed concern about the growing environmental impact of uncontrolled development on the Ramsar wetland ecosystem. According to her, aquatic life within the area is gradually disappearing because concrete structures and land reclamation activities have blocked access to natural water channels needed to sustain biodiversity.
The NADMO Technical Director further defended demolition exercises carried out in flood-prone areas, describing them as painful but necessary interventions aimed at restoring waterways and protecting lives. She acknowledged that many affected property owners invested heavily in their buildings, but stressed that authorities could not ignore the dangers posed by illegal structures on drainage paths.
She disclosed that despite previous demolitions, some individuals have returned to the same locations to begin rebuilding because they believe they are entitled to the land. According to her, such actions continue to undermine flood prevention efforts and worsen the municipality’s environmental challenges.
Loretta Nanahemaa Nhyira Frimpong therefore urged prospective land buyers to always verify documentation and approved layouts at the municipal assembly before purchasing or developing land. She warned that some lands reserved for drainage systems, wetlands, and non-residential purposes are being illegally sold or occupied for private development.
Meanwhile, local government expert, Issaka Kotey, has also criticized the country’s approach to urban planning and drainage infrastructure, describing it as a major contributor to perennial flooding in many parts of Ghana.
According to him, many developed countries prioritize green spaces, proper drainage systems, and sustainable environmental planning, unlike Ghana where exposed soil surfaces and weak drainage structures remain widespread. He argued that the excessive use of concrete surfaces without adequate water management systems increases runoff during heavy rains and worsens flooding situations.
Issaka Kotey called on municipal assemblies to promote greening initiatives around homes and public spaces, while encouraging property owners to install rainwater harvesting tanks to reduce pressure on drainage systems. He warned that relying solely on demolition exercises without adopting sustainable environmental planning measures would not permanently solve the flooding problem.
He emphasized that long-term flood control requires coordinated urban planning, environmental protection, strict enforcement of building regulations, and greater public awareness about the dangers of building on waterways and wetlands.
Story by Freedom Etsey Lavoe/Ahotoronline.com