The exercise brought together key stakeholders to desilt drains and clear refuse-filled waterways, which authorities say continue to contribute significantly to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
Speaking during the exercise, the Greater Accra Regional Director of NADMO, Dennis Nartey Adjannor, attributed the persistent flooding in the city largely to the indiscriminate disposal of waste into drains and gutters.
He noted that government is making substantial investments in drainage infrastructure through the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) Project, a World Bank-supported initiative designed to strengthen the city’s flood resilience and improve drainage systems.
According to Mr. Adjannor, several major drains in Accra have already been expanded under the project to facilitate the free flow of water and reduce flood risks.
However, he cautioned that the effectiveness of these interventions is being undermined by poor sanitation practices, particularly the dumping of refuse into drainage channels.
“Let us all help to keep our gutters clean and maintain a healthy environment. Government is spending a lot of money to expand drains under the GARID project, but if we continue to dump waste into them and silt them up again, then the whole effort becomes ineffective,” he stated.
He urged residents to take greater responsibility for environmental sanitation by properly disposing of waste and helping to keep drains free from obstruction.
Mr. Adjannor stressed that addressing flooding in Accra requires a collective effort involving government agencies, private sector partners, and the public.
The cleanup exercise forms part of broader efforts to promote environmental cleanliness, improve urban resilience, and prevent the recurring floods that affect many communities across the Greater Accra Region during the rainy season.
Source: citinews
