Former Deputy Minister for Transport, Titus Nii Kwartei Glover, has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals polluting the Densu River. This pollution creates a serious threat to public health and water security. The growing menace also increases operational costs for the Ghana Water Company.
The Densu River serves as a major source of water for several communities in the Greater Accra Region. Indiscriminate dumping of refuse into the river has triggered deep concern. This environmental damage has been observed in various locations, including social media. Offenders appear unconcerned about the extensive damage they inflict on the environment and society.
This issue fits into Ghana’s broader struggle with sanitation and waste management. Urban drainage systems nationwide often mirror the Densu River’s plight. The problem affects water supply and public health infrastructure. It adds financial strain on utilities like the Ghana Water Company, which must treat severely contaminated water. This widespread issue transcends political affiliations, highlighting a deeper attitudinal problem.
Mr. Glover, speaking on JoyNews' AM Show on Monday, June 15, lamented the deliberate dumping of waste. He stated, “Until we are able to arrest and punish people, this behaviour will continue.” He stressed that the behaviour has nothing to do with any government. He believes it is a character issue and about how Ghanaians treat the environment.
The pollution of the Densu River forces the Ghana Water Company to incur additional costs. These costs are for treating water before distribution to consumers. This impacts the utility’s financial health and potentially tariff rates. The absence of deterrents suggests continued environmental degradation and increased public health risks. Decision-makers must strengthen law enforcement and community-level participation.
Residents of Weija, Bortianor, Amanfrom, Sowutuom, and Dansoman rely on this water source. The pollution directly threatens their access to safe drinking water. Local authorities, including unit committees, must play a more active role. Effective enforcement of environmental laws is crucial to reversing this trend. Creating a deterrent will make people understand the consequences of polluting rivers and drains. This measure will ensure sustainable water access for thousands of households in the Greater Accra Region.