PRINPAG demands urgent urban planning reforms after devastating floods

The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has called on the government to undertake sweeping urban planning reforms following the devastating floods that recently swept through parts of the country, describing the disaster as a wake-up call for decisive action to prevent future tragedies.

In a statement issued on July 2 by the President of the Association, David Tamakloe, PRINPAG expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by the torrential rains, extending its condolences to families who lost loved ones and solidarity to thousands of people displaced by the floods.

The Association said the scale of the devastation demands a united national response, urging Ghanaians to support affected communities as recovery efforts continue.

PRINPAG commended the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana National Fire Service, the Ghana Meteorological Agency and other emergency response agencies for their rescue operations and humanitarian assistance.

It acknowledged the difficult conditions under which the agencies had operated and praised their efforts to save lives and provide relief to victims.

However, the Association attributed the severity of the flooding partly to persistent disregard for planning regulations, poor waste management practices and the continued construction of buildings on waterways.

It criticised individuals, corporate bodies and local authorities whose negligence, it said, had worsened the impact of the disaster.

"The perennial issue of construction on waterways, the choking of drains with solid waste, and the failure of developers to adhere to planning regulations have undoubtedly contributed to the scale of the devastation we witness today," the statement said.

PRINPAG urged all stakeholders to respect environmental and spatial planning laws and called for an end to practices that continue to expose communities to flood risks.

The Association also underscored the critical role of the media during national emergencies, urging journalists and media organisations to uphold professionalism by providing accurate information, educating the public on safety measures, highlighting relief efforts and advocating long term solutions to Ghana's flooding challenges.

It appealed to Ghanaians to demonstrate compassion and solidarity by supporting flood victims while encouraging the public to comply with safety advisories issued by the relevant authorities.

PRINPAG further called on the government to use the disaster as an opportunity to fundamentally rethink urban development and implement lasting reforms rather than temporary interventions.

Among the measures proposed by the Association are the strict enforcement of building regulations to prevent construction on waterways and flood-prone areas, major investment in modern drainage infrastructure, a comprehensive review of spatial planning involving urban planning and environmental experts, and sustained public education campaigns to promote responsible waste disposal and environmental stewardship.

According to PRINPAG, addressing weaknesses in planning standards and enforcement mechanisms is essential to protecting lives and property from recurring flood disasters.

The Association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, public education and advocacy through responsible journalism as the country works towards recovery and long term resilience.