The Ga East Municipal Assembly has begun demolishing structures built within waterways and drainage reservations as part of measures to reduce flooding and protect lives and property during the rainy season.
The exercise, currently underway in several communities, is aimed at enforcing planning regulations and improving the free flow of stormwater through major drainage channels across the municipality.
Officials say hundreds of unauthorised structures located in waterways and flood-prone areas have been identified and are expected to be affected by the ongoing operation.
A National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) official involved in the exercise explained that the affected area serves as a key convergence point for floodwaters from surrounding communities, making it highly vulnerable during periods of heavy rainfall.
According to the official, floodwaters from a nearby watercourse combine with runoff from areas such as Madina, causing water levels to rise and inundate neighbouring communities.
He noted that the removal of structures obstructing the watercourse would help improve drainage and reduce flooding by allowing stormwater to flow freely through the channel.
Residents in the area acknowledged the recurring flooding challenges. One resident said overflowing drains often make movement difficult, while another attributed the worsening situation to recent developments constructed along the waterway.
The Assembly has warned that additional unauthorised structures blocking drainage channels will be demolished in the coming days as authorities step up efforts to mitigate flooding and enhance public safety across the municipality.