By Amoako Kwame
The Council of State has called for the strict enforcement of planning and building regulations as part of efforts to address Ghana’s recurring flooding and reduce the impact of disasters.
In a statement issued following Monday’s devastating floods, the Council urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to rigorously enforce planning laws, ensure compliance with approved building standards, prevent construction in flood-prone areas, and prioritise effective drainage maintenance, sanitation, and waste management.
The appeal comes after torrential rains claimed at least 12 lives, displaced thousands of residents, submerged homes, and disrupted transportation across parts of Accra and several other affected communities.
According to the Council, the persistent flooding experienced in many parts of the country is largely the result of poor sanitation, choked drains, illegal developments on waterways and wetlands, and inadequate enforcement of planning and building regulations.
It stressed that preventing floods should be a national priority, rather than focusing primarily on disaster response after such incidents occur.
The Council also proposed that the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) be actively involved in the planning of major infrastructure and development projects by conducting comprehensive disaster risk assessments before implementation, particularly in flood-prone and other high-risk areas.
Expressing sympathy to flood victims, especially those in the Greater Accra Region and other vulnerable communities, the Council extended its condolences to families who had lost loved ones and its support to those affected by injuries, displacement, and the destruction of property and livelihoods.
“Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones, suffered injuries, been displaced from their homes, or lost property and livelihoods,” the statement said, adding that the country must remain united in supporting affected communities.
The Council also commended the government, NADMO, the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana National Fire Service, the Ghana Police Service, health professionals, volunteers, and other emergency responders for their swift rescue and relief operations.
It further welcomed measures recently announced by NADMO to strengthen disaster preparedness, including plans to revive its volunteer network through an updated database of citizens willing to assist during emergencies.
According to the Council, NADMO’s presence at the national, regional, and district levels places the organisation in a strong position to enhance monitoring, improve coordination, and deliver more effective emergency responses across the country.
