The Works and Housing Committee of Parliament in Ghana has called on the Finance Minister to release funds urgently to the Ministry of Works and Housing. The funds are needed for ongoing construction works and the desilting of storm drains, which are crucial in mitigating flooding in major cities across the country. The committee made this appeal during a tour of flood-prone areas and inspections of construction works on storm drains in the Greater Accra Region. The aim is to address the causes of flooding and protect lives and properties from the devastating effects of floods.
Addressing the Flooding Situation
The Chairman of the Works and Housing Committee, Mr. Isaac Kwame Asiamah, emphasized the importance of timely funding for construction projects and desilting of storm drains to combat the flooding challenges in Ghana. He highlighted heavy rainfall, inadequate drainage systems, and the poor environmental attitudes of Ghanaians as the main causes of flooding. Illegal structures built in flood-prone areas and wetlands exacerbate the problem. Mr. Asiamah stressed that the nation needs to tackle these issues urgently to prevent further damage and economic consequences.
Inspections and Recommendations
During the tour, the committee visited various locations, including the Odaw River, the Obetsebi Lamptey interchange, the Ponpon River, and the Old Barrier on the Accra-Kasoa Road. They assessed the silt levels in the rivers and observed ongoing construction works on storm drains. In the Ga South Municipality, the committee urged the local authorities to prevent the construction of illegal structures near the banks of the flood-prone Ponpon River.
The Economic Impact of Flooding
Mr. Asiamah highlighted the significant economic consequences of flooding. Infrastructure such as bridges and road networks can be destroyed, affecting the nation’s economy and agricultural sector. He emphasized the need for further investment in flood control measures to protect these vital assets and prevent the loss of lives and properties. The committee acknowledged the government’s previous investments but called for continued prioritization of the construction of storm drains in major cities.
Calls for Government Action
The Ranking Member of the Works and Housing Committee, Mr. Vincent Oppong Asamoah, urged the government to prioritize the construction of storm drains in major cities to save lives and properties. Madam Sheila Penelope Bartels, Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North, highlighted the flooding risks posed by the Lafa River during the rainy season and appealed for measures to protect the affected communities.
The Works and Housing Committee of Parliament has stressed the need for immediate release of funds for construction works and desilting of storm drains to mitigate flooding in Ghana. Addressing the causes of flooding, preventing the construction of illegal structures in flood-prone areas, and improving drainage systems are essential steps towards protecting lives, preserving infrastructure, and safeguarding the nation’s economy. Continued investments and collaborative efforts between the government, Parliament, and local communities are necessary to effectively address the issue of flooding and its detrimental impact on Ghana’s development.
