Residents and officials in the Anloga District are intensifying calls for urgent intervention to prevent future flooding, with local authorities urging the Volta River Authority to dredge the blocked Fuveme estuary before another disaster strikes.
The call was made during a stakeholder engagement organised by the VRA at the Anloga District Assembly Hall as part of its Emergency Preparedness Plan sensitisation programme for flood-prone communities affected by possible spillages from the Akosombo Dam.
The meeting brought together traditional leaders, emergency response agencies, assembly members, media representatives and residents from vulnerable communities to strengthen preparedness for potential flooding incidents.
Sandra Seyram Kpedor used the platform to call for immediate dredging works at the Fuveme Estuary, describing the sandbar blockage as a major threat to surrounding communities.
According to her, clearing the estuary would allow water from the Volta River to flow freely into the sea during periods of high water levels and help reduce recurring floods.
She noted that several communities in the district continue to face severe flooding risks, recalling the destruction caused by the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage in communities such as Alakple and Fiaxor.
She also referenced recent tidal surges at Fuveme, where rising sea levels and blocked waterways have heightened fears among residents.
President John Dramani Mahama recently visited the affected area and indicated plans to engage the VRA on possible dredging efforts to reduce flood risks.
During the meeting, Rhoda Arthur educated residents on emergency response measures and warned against building structures within water buffer zones.
She stressed that encroachment on waterways and wetlands significantly increases flood vulnerability and hinted at stricter enforcement measures.
Officials say the Anloga District remains highly vulnerable to flooding, tidal waves and coastal erosion due to its low-lying geography and dependence on fishing, farming and trading activities.
A similar preparedness exercise has already been conducted in the neighbouring Keta District as authorities work to strengthen disaster response efforts across the region.
