Residents of Adekopa-Sonitra near Amasaman in the Greater Accra Region are calling for urgent government intervention over what they describe as the deteriorating management of a landfill site in their community, warning of growing environmental and public health hazards.
According to the residents, the situation has worsened in recent weeks after waste collection tricycles were diverted to the site following the closure of other dumping grounds due to recent flooding in parts of Accra.
They say the increased pressure on the facility, combined with malfunctioning equipment, has slowed down waste disposal operations, leading to long queues of refuse-laden tricycles that block major access roads in the area.
Some residents say the congestion has made it difficult for people to enter or leave their homes, forcing them to sometimes plead with operators to clear the way.
One resident, who spoke anonymously, said the community is not opposed to the existence of the landfill but is concerned about how it is being managed.
“We are not complaining about the waste being brought here. The problem is the management. Our roads are blocked, and sometimes we have to beg before we can pass,” he said.
Others also raised alarm over what they described as worsening sanitation conditions, alleging that overflowing waste has spilled onto roads in the community.
Another resident said the situation has led to the spread of maggots, mosquitoes and rodents, describing it as a serious health threat, especially for children living in the area.
He added that the authorities have not taken steps to fumigate or control the infestation, despite the growing environmental concerns.
Residents are therefore appealing to relevant authorities to urgently improve landfill management, repair faulty equipment and provide alternative access routes for waste vehicles to ease congestion and reduce the health risks facing the community.
