In a bold move to reclaim Accra’s vital wetlands and mitigate the city’s worsening flood risks, the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has commenced a sweeping demolition exercise targeting unauthorized developments on critical water channels and Ramsar sites.
The operation, which began on Tuesday, May 27, is focused on removing illegal structures at ecologically sensitive areas such as Tema, Klagon, and the Sakumo Ramsar site. These wetlands, once natural buffers against flooding, have been gradually degraded by years of unchecked urban encroachment.
Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, speaking to Citi News at one of the sites, clarified that the demolitions follow multiple warnings and enforcement notices issued to developers.
“These demolitions are not random. Property owners were duly informed. Many of the buildings had ‘Stop Work’ notices, which were ignored,” she stated firmly.
Environmental advocates have applauded the move, long arguing that restoring the city’s natural drainage corridors is essential to ending the cycle of destruction caused by heavy rains. Accra’s recent floods displaced hundreds, damaged property, and paralyzed commerce, reigniting national discourse on poor urban planning and weak enforcement of zoning laws.
Authorities say the current demolitions mark the beginning of a phased approach to reclaiming flood-prone areas across the region. The Regional Coordinating Council, in partnership with environmental bodies and urban planners, is also designing a long-term urban resilience strategy to ensure sustainable development.
“We’re not just demolishing; we’re building a safer, more flood-resilient Accra,” Minister Ocloo emphasized, urging residents and developers to comply with planning regulations to avert future disasters.
