By: Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Dramani Mahama has directed urgent national action to address the worsening flooding situation across the country, warning that illegal construction and poor environmental practices are aggravating the crisis.
Speaking on arrival at the Accra International Airport, he called for strict enforcement of planning regulations and immediate measures to protect lives and property.
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed concern over the recurring flooding situation affecting several parts of the country, describing it as a challenge that demands both enforcement and behavioural change.
According to him, the situation is being driven largely by poor sanitation practices, indiscriminate dumping of waste, and the increasing encroachment on wetlands and natural drainage systems.
He warned that the consequences are becoming severe, stressing that “when it rains, we pour garbage into drains,” a practice he said is worsening the impact of floods on communities.
President Mahama also pointed to the growing construction activities in waterways, noting that such developments are choking natural drainage channels and increasing vulnerability during heavy rains.
He further cautioned against complacency, stating that “this time, we must really repair the roof,” emphasizing the need for sustained and decisive action rather than temporary fixes.
The President has therefore directed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other relevant agencies to identify all restricted waterways and take immediate steps to clear encroachments and prevent further violations.
He stressed that while government will intensify public education on environmental responsibility, enforcement will also be strengthened to ensure compliance with physical planning regulations.
President Mahama urged collective responsibility in tackling the menace, warning that failure to act decisively will only deepen the recurring cycle of flooding and destruction.
