Hundreds of homes in parts of Weija in Accra have been submerged following a controlled spillage of the Weija Dam leaving thousands of residents stranded and forcing many to flee their homes.
The situation has resulted in extensive flooding in surrounding communities, with several residents displaced and others struggling to salvage their belongings as water inundates homes and roads.
The flooding comes after The Ghana Water Company Ltd (GWCL) officially announced the commencement of controlled spillage at the Weija Dam, following a rise in water levels beyond the maximum operating threshold of 48 feet.
The move is a critical safety measure intended to “safeguard the structural integrity and safety of the dam”.
The utility provider explained that annual controlled spilling is standard practice whenever levels exceed 45 feet to “prevent undue pressure on the dam and avert any potential disaster”.
The situation is expected to persist for the coming months, as the Ghana Meteorological Agency has forecasted further torrential rains upstream, which will likely lead to continued increased inflows into the dam.
“In view of this development, all persons living along the course of the river downstream of the dam are strongly advised to evacuate from vulnerable areas immediately to forestall any eventuality and ensure the safety of lives and property,” GWCL warned in a release.
The release further indicated that the management of GWCL is cordinating with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and local District Assemblies regarding the removal of obstructions that prevent the free flow of water into the sea urging the authorities to expedite the clearing of structures to “minimize the risk of flooding and protect affected communities”.
The public has therefore been encouraged to remain vigilant and to “cooperate fully with all emergency directives and advisories issued by the relevant state institutions”.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
