Residents and traders at the Ofankor barrier roundabout in the Ga-North Municipal Assembly have expressed their gratitude to Mr. Simons Sekyim, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), for addressing the long-standing issue of flooding in the area. They have praised the MCE for fixing the problem, stating that they can now go about their daily activities without worries, even during rainfall.
Previously, the Ofankor barrier roundabout would experience severe flooding that lasted for days whenever it rained. Pedestrians had to navigate through the flooded section by stepping on pavement blocks placed in the water, leading to difficulties in movement. This situation also disrupted the smooth flow of vehicular traffic.
One trader, Mr. Kwadwo Kwakye, mentioned that pedestrians often lost their footing while crossing the road, resulting in falls into the stagnant water. Additionally, the stagnant water became a breeding ground for mosquitoes and flies, posing health risks to the community.
Mr. Kwakye commended the MCE for addressing the issue and called on Ghanaians to support the government in tackling sanitation challenges that contribute to flooding.
Some female traders, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared their experiences of being splashed with water by speeding vehicles as they drove off. They also highlighted the unpleasant smell emitted by the stagnant water and its negative impact on their health, with one trader recounting a recent malaria episode that required hospitalization.
The MCE, Mr. Simons Sekyim, explained that inspections conducted at the site revealed the presence of a structure that obstructed the free flow of water. He mentioned that the structure had been demolished, and the outfall had been desilted to allow for improved drainage.
With financial assistance from the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID), four maintenance and access chambers were constructed to enhance the drainage system. Mr. Sekyim emphasized the need for re-engineering the Ofankor barrier roundabout to include additional drainage systems and the expansion of existing ones.
He urged the public to refrain from indiscriminate dumping of refuse, especially during rainfall, and called for responsible waste management practices to prevent future flooding incidents.
The interventions implemented by the MCE and the support from GARID are expected to significantly reduce the flooding problem in the area and ensure a safer and more conducive environment for the residents and traders at the Ofankor barrier roundabout.
