The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has pledged to prevent future June 3 disasters. The assembly stated this after remembering the tragedy. This disaster happened eleven years ago. It caused significant loss of life and injury. Many victims still suffer the consequences.
The AMA's Public Relations Officer, Gilbert Nii Ankrah, spoke on JoyNews. He confirmed the assembly's commitment. "As an Assembly, we sympathise with the victims of the June 3 disaster and their families," he said. "This tragedy remains very dear to our hearts." He also stated that significant efforts are underway to stop such events from happening again.
The June 3 disaster in 2015 was a painful event for Accra. A fire and flood at a GOIL filling station near Kwame Nkrumah Circle killed over 150 people. More than 200 others were injured. Many survivors still deal with physical and emotional pain. They also face economic hardship. Justice and compensation remain elusive for some.
Mr. Ankrah explained the AMA's preventative measures. The assembly is focused on drainage maintenance. It conducts desilting exercises regularly. These happen before, during, and after the rainy season. The goal is to ensure water flows freely. This helps prevent floods in the city.
The AMA is also tackling poor waste management. This is a major cause of blocked drains. Blocked drains contribute significantly to flooding. Mr. Ankrah noted intensified efforts in this area. The assembly is working with other organisations. They aim to improve drainage systems. They also want to make Accra more resilient to floods. Climate-related disasters are a growing concern.
Further plans include improving drainage mapping. This will focus on stormwater systems. Better coordination will enhance planning. It will also improve response measures during emergencies. "Eleven years after the June 3 disaster, our hope is that such a tragedy will never happen again in our city," Mr. Ankrah stated. "We remain committed to putting in place the necessary measures to protect lives and property." The AMA's actions aim to safeguard citizens and property from future calamities.