Dredge Masters Ghana Limited has intensified its anti-flood efforts in the Greater Accra Region by deploying specialised equipment to desilt critical drainage channels. The company warns that widespread encroachment on drainage buffer zones is significantly hindering effective maintenance of stormwater infrastructure.
This intervention is part of an ongoing three-day anti-flood clean-up exercise. Zoomlion Ghana Limited, in partnership with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other bodies, spearheads this initiative. The operation follows recent heavy rainfall that exposed the poor condition of clogged drainage channels. This reduced their capacity and increased flooding risks across the capital.
This effort fits into Ghana's broader challenge of managing rapid urbanisation and inadequate infrastructure. Many urban areas in Accra, like Weija and Mepeasem, face persistent flooding. This is due to a combination of heavy rainfall, poor waste management, and encroachment on waterways. The lack of proper maintenance on major drains, some of which have not been maintained for years, contributes to this issue. This cycle escalates economic losses and poses significant public health risks each rainy season.
Mr Sena Adiepena, Operations Manager of Dredge Masters Ghana Limited, stated that many drains have lost capacity due to inadequate maintenance. He said, "This storm drain near UPSA is designed to carry large volumes of floodwater downstream towards its outfall. However, it has not been maintained for some time and has lost significant capacity." He highlighted that solid waste accumulation further exacerbates the problem.
The company aims to clear key drainage channels urgently to minimise recurrent flooding. This is especially critical with more rainfall expected in the coming weeks. Dredge Masters has committed to addressing identified flashpoints in areas like Weija, the Kasoa Toll Booth, Sakumono, and Teshie. These concerted efforts are crucial to protecting property and preventing humanitarian crises in flood-prone zones.
However, Mr Adiepena identified encroachment on drainage buffer zones as a major challenge. He explained that private developments have blocked access routes and buffer zones needed for maintenance activities. This makes it difficult for heavy equipment to reach and effectively dredge the drains. Such obstructions impede the efficient deployment of resources and prolong the vulnerability of communities to flooding.
Mr Adiepena called for stronger collaboration between authorities and property owners to reclaim access to drainage infrastructure. He stressed that these corridors are essential for effective flood control and require long-term solutions. Regular maintenance, he argued, remains the most effective way to prevent floods. He noted, "The solution is continuous maintenance. We should not wait for floods to occur before taking action."
The exercise currently targets several flood-prone communities. These include Madina, Roman Ridge, Mallam, Paloma, Circle, Kaneshie, and the GBC area. Dredge Masters expects to cover approximately two kilometres of the Mepeasem drain. However, physical obstructions and unauthorised structures are slowing progress. This situation underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of urban planning regulations and public cooperation.
Mr Adiepena also confirmed that Zoomlion Ghana Limited and its partners are funding this intervention. He noted that the initiative comes at "no cost to the State or the assemblies." This private sector support highlights the shared responsibility in addressing Ghana's flood challenges. These efforts are crucial for resilient infrastructure and sustainable urban development in Ghana.