Mahama Orders Speedy Desilting of Odaw Drain to Prevent Flooding
President John Mahama has directed contractors working on the Odaw drain desilting project to accelerate their efforts before the onset of the rainy season. The move is part of measures to mitigate the risk of flooding in Accra, a recurring issue that has caused significant damage and loss of life in the past.
During a tour of flood-prone areas in the Greater Accra Region, President Mahama emphasized the urgency of the desilting process. He also took firm action against illegal encroachment on water retention areas, which has contributed to drainage issues in the city.
One of the key decisions made during the tour was the directive issued to Caitec Motors, a private company that had unlawfully filled a Ramsar site and a water retention basin at Mallam Junction. The President ordered the company to restore the area by removing the silt it had deposited. This step is aimed at ensuring that natural water pathways remain unobstructed to facilitate proper drainage and reduce flooding risks.
To enforce compliance with his orders, President Mahama tasked the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) with ensuring that all necessary corrective measures were taken. This includes compelling Caitec Motors to clear the affected area and enforcing the removal of unauthorized structures built in waterways. These actions are part of broader efforts to address urban planning challenges that have exacerbated flooding in Accra.
The President’s directive aligns with his administration’s commitment to tackling environmental and infrastructural issues that threaten public safety. Experts have often attributed Accra’s severe flooding problems to clogged drains, illegal structures on water channels, and inadequate urban planning. By prioritizing the desilting of the Odaw drain and cracking down on encroachment, Mahama aims to reduce the impact of heavy rains on the city.
This intervention also highlights the government’s broader strategy to enhance disaster preparedness and improve flood mitigation systems. The removal of silt and other debris from the Odaw drain is expected to restore its capacity to handle large volumes of water, preventing overflows that lead to urban flooding.
Residents and environmental advocates have welcomed the President’s decision, calling for sustained efforts to maintain drainage infrastructure and enforce strict regulations against unauthorized development. As the rainy season approaches, the effectiveness of these measures will be crucial in determining whether Accra can avoid another round of devastating floods.
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