Traditional leaders of Nwiso and Noyam in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region have raised concerns over the indiscriminate disposal of waste into gutters, warning that the practice is worsening flooding in their communities during the rainy season.
The concerns were expressed during the National Sanitation Day clean-up exercise, which was held simultaneously in both communities to promote environmental cleanliness and public health.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Noyam urged residents to regularly clear refuse dumps and maintain clean surroundings to help prevent environmental hazards and reduce the risk of flooding.
The Chief of Nwiso also issued a strong warning to residents who continue to dump waste into drains and gutters, stressing that such behaviour would no longer be tolerated.
He cautioned that offenders would face sanctions as traditional authorities intensify efforts to improve sanitation and protect the environment.
According to the chiefs, choked drains and poor sanitation practices remain among the leading causes of flooding in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. They therefore called on residents to take collective responsibility for keeping their communities clean.
The District Chief Executive for Birim North, Hakeem Abdul Antwi, who participated in the exercise, commended residents for their commitment to the clean-up campaign.
He assured the people of Nwiso and Noyam that the District Assembly would work to address the sanitation and drainage challenges confronting the two communities to help mitigate flooding and improve living conditions.
