The Member of Parliament for Tema West, Hon. Lawyer James Enu, has expressed deep concern over the extent of destruction caused by heavy downpour on 18th May, which led to widespread flooding across the constituency.
Speaking to the media after a tour of the affected areas, the MP detailed both the immediate impact of the flood and steps being taken to address the recurring issue.
The torrential rains, which began around 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, caused significant flooding in multiple communities including Lashibi, Klagon, and Adzen Kojo.
“We have received numerous complaints from residents about the flooding, and so this morning, we came around to assess the situation on the ground,” Hon. Enu stated.
The MP was accompanied by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), NADMO director, the Metropolitan Assembly Engineer for Tema West, and other officials of the assembly. The team visited the worst-hit areas to evaluate the extent of the damage.
“Thankfully, there have been no reported casualties or deaths so far,” Hon. Enu noted. “However, the destruction of property is quite severe. Some houses have been submerged, and residents have lost valuable belongings.”
He identified the construction of homes on waterways in Lashibi as a major contributor to the flooding. “This is a key concern,” he emphasized. “Together with the TMA engineer, we are considering a re-engineering plan to prevent future occurrences. We have already begun engaging the residents on a long-term solution.”
In Klagon and Adzen Kojo, the MP said the main challenge is the lack of adequate storm drains to carry excess rainwater. This has led to water overflowing into homes, compounding the devastation.
Hon. Enu disclosed that desilting efforts are already underway in some of the flood-prone zones.
“I have personally discussed this with the assembly engineer, and work has started in areas where the risk is highest,” he said. “Still, Tema West suffers from a huge infrastructure deficit, especially in roads and drainage systems in areas like Baatsona, Lashibi, and Klagon.”
The MP assured constituents that the Assembly would be continuing with an intensive desilting campaign to keep drains open and ensure the free flow of water during heavy rains.
He also stressed the need for public education on sanitation and responsible urban development.
“We must address the issue of people dumping refuse into drains and constructing buildings on lowland areas without permits,” he warned. “I want to appeal to all residents of Tema West to desist from such practices, as they significantly contribute to the flooding problem.”
The Member of Parliament for Tema West, Hon. Lawyer James Enu reaffirmed his commitment to working with the appropriate authorities to find lasting solutions to the flooding challenges facing Tema West and to safeguard lives and properties in the constituency.
Story by Freedom Lavoe.
