President John Dramani Mahama has directed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and a national task force to conduct a comprehensive assessment of restricted and protected lands across Accra as part of efforts to address the capital’s recurring flooding challenges.
The directive follows recent floods that affected several communities and renewed concerns over developments on waterways and other protected areas.
Speaking to members of his Cabinet at the Accra International Airport after returning from visits to the United Kingdom and Belarus on Tuesday, June 9, President Mahama said the task force had been instructed to identify all restricted waterways and areas that have been encroached upon.
“I have directed the task force, NADMO and all the others to do a presentation to us. We are going to identify all the restricted waterways,” he said.
According to the President, the findings will inform government action aimed at protecting vulnerable areas, preventing further encroachment and reducing the risk of future flooding.
“When they have done that, I am giving the directive that they should go ahead to do what they have to do,” he added.
President Mahama stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains a priority and indicated that authorities would be empowered to enforce existing regulations where necessary.
He acknowledged that some of the measures, including possible demolition exercises in affected areas, may attract criticism but maintained that such actions would be taken in the broader public interest.
“I hope when we do that possible demolition, all Ghanaians will understand that it is the government’s business to protect the safety of all of us,” he noted.
The President’s remarks form part of ongoing government efforts to strengthen flood prevention measures and improve urban planning in flood-prone areas.
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