Tony Asare, the President of the Ghana Institute of Architects, has raised serious concerns about the wider implications of the ongoing spillage from the Weija Dam, warning that the consequences extend far beyond the immediate displacement of residents.
Communities at risk of flooding, include Tetegu, Oblogo, Pambros Salt, Lower McCarthy Hill, Lower Weija, Bojo Beach, Adakope, and surrounding areas.
Asare, drew attention to the potential health hazards resulting from the flooding, warning that contaminated water poses serious risks to affected communities.
“The worry is not just about spilling the dam and dislocating or dislodging people who are within that settlement. But there are other issues, such as septic tanks that will be flooded, wells that will be flooded,” he explained to Accra-based Channel One.
He cautioned that the mixing of floodwaters with sewage and other pollutants, could lead to secondary health crises, including the spread of waterborne diseases.
“If you have water that is mixing up with sewage and such things, then we are even worried about secondary issues beyond the destruction of properties.
“But we are looking at health issues and a whole lot of other issues. So this thing is really worrying,” Asare stressed.
Ghana Water Limited (GWL) commenced a controlled spillage of excess water from the Weija Dam as a precautionary measure to prepare for the rainy season.
In a press statement issued on Friday, May 23, the utility company, cautioned residents living downstream of the dam to prepare for potential flooding.
GWL, explained that the spillage is essential to safeguard the structural integrity of the dam and to avert any possible disaster.
According to the statement, the current water level at the dam stands at 45 feet, just two feet below the maximum safe operating limit of 47 feet. With water levels continuing to rise, GWL urged residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate in order to avoid a repeat of previous flood incidents.
“The Management of GWL is by this release sounding a word of caution to inhabitants downstream to evacuate the area to forestall any eventuality,” the statement said.
“Additionally, the Ga West Municipal Assembly has been advised to desilt the estuary to facilitate the smooth flow of excess water into the sea and to clear accumulated refuse along the course of the river.”
GWL, further stressed the importance of following guidance from disaster management authorities: “Residents downstream must heed all warnings from NADMO and other agencies mandated to manage disasters.”
GWL, concluded by calling for public cooperation to prevent a recurrence of past disasters and to protect lives and property.