Linda Ocloo warns Greater Accra on high flood alert and announces emergency measures

Linda Ocloo, Greater Accra Regional Minister, announced emergency measures on Monday, May 25, to tackle flooding in the Greater Accra region. She stated that recent downpours had already caused casualties and new forecasts from the Ghana Meteorological Agency point to "more intense rainfall activity" in the weeks ahead. She directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to immediately intensify flood prevention exercises within their jurisdictions, including desilting of gutters and drains, removal of refuse from drainage channels, inspection of waterways and demolition of unauthorised structures obstructing the free flow of water.

Madam Ocloo also announced an imminent crackdown on unauthorised transport terminals and roadside lorry stations operating in public spaces and obstructing traffic flow. Several flood-prone communities across the capital have been placed under close monitoring, including Kaneshie, Alajo, Odawna, Circle, Weija, Tetegu, Ashalaja, Dansoman, Adabraka, Ashaiman, Tema Communities 1 and 2, Madina, Adenta, Lakeside, Borteyman, Pantang and Kwabenya. Regional and district-level response teams have been activated in collaboration with the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Armed Forces and the National Ambulance Service. Relief items including food supplies, mattresses, blankets, first aid kits and life jackets have also been positioned at strategic locations across the region.

The Regional Minister revealed that the Weija Dam has been opened following rising water levels caused by continuous rainfall. She explained, "The controlled release of excess water has become necessary to prevent structural damage and ensure public safety." The Regional Security Council would embark on an inspection and evacuation exercise immediately after the press briefing.