President John Dramani Mahama has announced that designs are being worked on regarding a new city to serve major government institutions away from Accra.
“Government will provide the necessary infrastructure, including roads, water and electricity, to support the growth of the new city and reduce pressure on Accra,” President Mahama said, adding that the project will span about two decades.
He made these known on Monday, June 29 when he addressed the nation following Monday’s devastating floods.
The floods occurred as a result of heavy rainfall, regarded as one of the highest in recent years.
According to a briefing by the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet), approximately 140 millimetres of rains fell on Monday as compared to last year’s highest of 56 millimetres.
President Mahama announced that drastic measures have to be taken to ensure that the capital city is saved from the perennial floods.
“We will therefore convene a meeting of the National Security Council to address this matter urgently,” he disclosed.
“Every Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assembly will be directed, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, to identify all obstructions along major drainage channels within their jurisdictions.
“These structures will be earmarked for removal.”
He expressed sympathies to families who have lost loved ones as a result of Monday’s downpour.
“I have watched several videos showing rescue personnel carrying stranded residents to safety and deploying boats to save lives. Their dedication has undoubtedly prevented an even greater tragedy.
“I have directed NADMO to identify affected victims and provide immediate support wherever possible over the coming days.”