The state of flooding in Accra

One of Ghana’s main sources of property destruction, with obvious examples in slums and homes near waterways, has been flooding. The situation has shown itself to be progressive, and it appears that people might not consider their surroundings until something bad occurs. The frequency of floods that have occurred in Accra over the years is a terrible case study. It is devastating to think that a single severe storm or heavy downpour may wipe out the existence of an entire community, particularly in rural places. There will be a lot of rain as June approaches; therefore, it will be necessary to take precautions to prevent flooding in some areas of Accra.

Heavy rainfall brought on by tropical weather disturbances is one of the main causes of floods in Ghana. Deforestation,incorrect agricultural methods, structures and drainage canals that are improperly designed, poor upkeep of drainage systems, and obstruction from material brought by flood

There are several occasions where a gutter is planned but never completed, causing the homes of the people to fall into the gutter. The Kpone-Katamanso District’s Zenu, where a massive gutter has been dug, is an example of a typical situation. The worst part is that although their own people made plans to dig a gutter, nothing was done to stop it, and when rain fell, it continued to grow until parts of the population’s buildings collapsed into it.

Because the impending rains will put the lives and property of these residents, particularly those who live near the heavily dug gutter, in danger, they have attempted to build shelves around their buildings in an effort to maintain their strength. However, this action still poses a risk. They are asking the government for assistance in building their gutters in order to protect their properties.

Some locals even caution that because people on the other side of the gutter can no longer cross to their side, their businesses have crumbled as a result.

According to primenewsghana.com, the Greater Accra Region’s geography makes some places more vulnerable to floods than others. If you’ve ever viewed Accra from the top of the Aburi Mountains, you know that much of the area is flat with a few peaks and valleys. Because of their geographic location, certain locations are more prone to flooding than others. Some of the areas that are prone to flooding are Sakaman Kamara Down, Atico Bridge, Abolo-Junction, Mataheko, Atico Junction, Kaneshie Lorry Station, some portions of East Legon, Zamarama Line,Banana Inn, Abelemkpe, Dzorwulu, Sukura, Russia, Bawaleshie, Airport Residential, Glefe, Mpoase, Dansoman, Odawna (Kwame Nkrumah Circle), among other areas in Accra. What is the next course of action for these flood-prone communities? Should larger gutters be constructed to avert this calamity? How about the populace protecting their surroundings to prevent gutter clogs? What steps are being taken to reduce the frequency of floods in Accra?

CSA writer of the year in 2022-Amanda Atunah
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