Greater Accra identifies critical flood hotspots ahead of peak rains and Homowo

The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has identified several flood-prone communities across the region.

This, the council says, forms part of preparations ahead of the peak rainy season and the upcoming Homowo festival.

The move forms part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing the impact of flooding, safeguarding lives and property, and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere during the annual traditional celebrations.

The decision was reached following an emergency assessment conducted by the Regional Security Council under the leadership of the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo. The exercise reviewed ecological vulnerabilities, flood risks and security concerns within the capital and its surrounding communities.

According to the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, a number of areas have been classified as critical flood-risk locations requiring urgent intervention and close monitoring.

Among the communities identified as critical risk corridors are Odawna Sahara and Adabraka Official Town within the Korle Klottey Municipality.

Other areas designated as high-risk flashpoints include Alajo Central, the D.K. Poison and Polo Park enclave, Berlin Bridge, and adjoining communities within Ayawaso North and Ayawaso East. Parts of Madina, including the Jelil Estate Junction, Baba Yara area, and Akorli Down, have also been listed among communities requiring heightened attention.

Additional locations such as Osu Alata, Osu Doku, and the vicinity of the Abelemkpe Methodist Church have similarly been identified as vulnerable areas.

The Council further announced intensified monitoring of major drainage systems and flood catchment zones in the Weija-Gbawe, Ga West, and Ga East municipalities. Communities, including Old Barrier, Choice, Tetegu, Oblogo, Manhean, Afuaman, Medie, Dome Crossing, GAEC Road, Christian Village Drain, and sections of the Dakyibi River catchment area, will be subjected to enhanced surveillance throughout the rainy season.

As part of measures to prevent flooding, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) have been directed to undertake immediate sanitation and desilting exercises within their jurisdictions.

Authorities say sanitation task forces have been instructed to clear drains, remove refuse and eliminate obstructions that could impede the free flow of water during heavy rains.

Beyond flood prevention, REGSEC has also outlined enhanced security arrangements ahead of this year’s Homowo celebrations.

The Council noted that large gatherings associated with traditional festivities can sometimes create opportunities for disturbances linked to chieftaincy and land disputes. Consequently, security agencies have been directed to increase intelligence gathering, visibility patrols and preventive operations across traditional areas expected to host major events.

The Ghana National Fire Service and other emergency response agencies have also finalised plans covering crowd management, traffic control and emergency interventions during the festivities.

Meanwhile, residents living within identified flood-prone communities have been urged to remain vigilant and comply with safety directives issued by relevant authorities.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has designated safe havens and evacuation centres and is expected to relocate residents where rising water levels pose an imminent threat to lives and property.

Addressing the public, Regional Minister Linda Ocloo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting residents from disasters and maintaining public safety.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain our foremost priority. The government, through the Regional Coordinating Council, the security services, NADMO, and all relevant stakeholders, will not sit idly by for disaster to dictate our narrative,” she stated.

She further appealed to residents to cooperate with authorities, observe safety precautions and promptly report emergencies through the appropriate channels.

The Regional Security Council assured the public that all relevant institutions remain fully mobilised and prepared to respond to emergencies as Greater Accra braces for the peak of the rainy season and the Homowo festivities.