Disaster: Demolition of structures on waterways necessary to prevent flooding - Tema West NADMO
Mr Kweku Nana Tatantu, Tema West Municipal Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), has reiterated that the demolition of unauthorised structures on waterways is necessary to prevent flooding within the municipality.
His comments follow recent heavy rains that caused widespread flooding and significant property damage in parts of the municipality.
Mr Tatantu described the incident as one of the worst flooding situations experienced in the area in recent years, noting that several communities were submerged.
He explained that the municipality serves as a major drainage channel for stormwater flowing from higher-lying areas, including Adenta, into the sea.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), he said the situation had been exacerbated by deforestation and indiscriminate clearing of vegetation, which had reduced the land's natural capacity to absorb and retain water.
According to him, the resulting surface runoff flows directly into the Sakumono Lagoon, increasing pressure on the drainage system and contributing to flooding.
Mr Tatantu explained that the discharge of water from the lagoon remained slow because water levels were already high, creating a backlog that could lead to further flooding should additional heavy rains occur before the end of the season.
He disclosed that preliminary assessments indicated that more than 5,000 residents across the municipality's 11 electoral areas had been affected, adding that NADMO officials were still compiling data from impacted communities.
Mr Tatantu said NADMO had completed the first phase of relief distribution, providing more than 30 bags of assorted items, along with mattresses, blankets, mosquito nets, and soap to affected residents.
He added that plans were underway to roll out a second phase of assistance to reach other affected communities.
The Municipal Director appealed to churches and faith-based organisations to make their facilities available as temporary shelters for displaced persons, noting that NADMO had adequate mosquito nets and bedding to support such arrangements.
He stressed that long-term mitigation measures would require strict enforcement of planning regulations and the reclamation of protected lands and waterways.
Mr Tatantu also cautioned residents against dumping refuse into drains, explaining that plastic waste often clogs drainage channels and reduces their effectiveness during heavy rainfall.
He further urged residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas to relocate to safer locations during the peak of the rainy season to safeguard lives and property.
GNA