Traditional leaders in Weija, together with the Chief of Lafa Barimba, Nii Ayi Okoforobour, have endorsed government efforts to demolish structures built on waterways as part of measures to address recurring flooding in the Greater Accra Region.
They say removing such encroachments is necessary to reduce the persistent flooding affecting Weija and nearby communities.
As part of local efforts, the traditional authorities have also carried out dredging works on the Lafa River within the Weija Ramsar Site to improve water flow and lessen flood risks.
Speaking to the media, Nii Ayi Okoforobour condemned the construction of buildings on waterways and called for strict enforcement against individuals and developers who encroach on wetlands and drainage channels.
He stressed that the Ramsar Site is not responsible for the flooding, as some have claimed, but rather that the problem stems from illegal reclamation and filling of wetlands for residential and commercial use.
According to him, such practices obstruct natural drainage paths and worsen the impact of heavy rainfall. He urged stronger enforcement measures to protect waterways and prevent further environmental degradation.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Greater Accra Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Nana Adubea, has assured that the upcoming demolition exercise will be conducted in a structured and coordinated manner to minimise risks and safeguard lives and property.