The Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Hon. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has stated that the government will intensify efforts to remove unauthorized structures situated in flood-prone areas across Accra as part of a broader strategy to address the city’s persistent flooding challenges.
According to the Minister, the increasing number of illegal developments along waterways, drainage channels, and designated flood zones has significantly contributed to the severity of flooding during the rainy season.
He emphasized that these structures obstruct the free flow of water, leading to the overflow of drains and widespread destruction of property and infrastructure.
Hon. Adjei noted that the government is committed to enforcing planning regulations and ensuring that all developments comply with existing building and environmental laws.
He explained that the exercise will be carried out in collaboration with relevant agencies, including local assemblies, urban planning authorities, and security services, to ensure effective implementation.
The Minister further stressed that while the exercise may be difficult for affected individuals, it is necessary to safeguard lives, protect public infrastructure, and reduce the economic losses associated with annual flooding.
He urged residents to cooperate with authorities and refrain from putting up structures in areas designated as waterways or flood zones.
The intensified enforcement forms part of the government’s comprehensive flood management agenda, which also includes the desilting of drains, expansion of drainage infrastructure, and public education on environmental sanitation and responsible land use.