The Volta River Authority (VRA) has officially announced the conclusion of its controlled spillage from the Akosombo Dam, according to a press release issued on October 30, 2023. The spillage, which began on September 15, 2023, has now come to an end, as stated by the VRA. While the spillage has concluded, the VRA remains committed to providing relief and participating in rehabilitation efforts to restore lives and livelihoods in the affected communities.
The VRA expressed gratitude to the various government agencies and stakeholders for their support in assisting the impacted communities during this challenging period.
Initially prompted by rising water levels at the Akosombo and Kpong Hydro Dams, the VRA initiated the controlled spillage to manage the excess water. Regrettably, the spillage led to the displacement and loss of homes and farmlands for many residents living along the Lower Volta Basin. The devastation caused by the flood affected nine districts, with the South, Central, and North Tongu districts in the Volta Region experiencing particularly severe damage.
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Heart-wrenching stories emerged from communities such as Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo, all of which were submerged under the water. The National Disaster Management Organization (NaDMO) estimated that over 26,000 people were displaced and rendered homeless. In response to this tragedy, several institutions and individuals have provided relief items to support the affected residents.
Both President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, alongside other political figures, have visited the impacted communities to assess the situation and provide support. The leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Minority caucus have also extended a helping hand to the victims, highlighting the unity and collective effort required during such trying times.
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With the spillage now ceased, the VRA has taken proactive measures to initiate a major disinfection and fumigation exercise in the flood-affected communities. This exercise aims to ensure the safety and habitability of homes, public spaces, and the entire community in the aftermath of the floods. Specifically, the VRA has contracted Zoomlion, a waste management and environmental services company, to carry out the fumigation and decontamination exercises in areas where water levels have significantly receded.
Speaking about the efforts, Ing. Kwame Osei Mensah Darkwa, the VRA's Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, emphasized the commitment to the safety and well-being of the affected communities. He stated that representatives from the local assembly, traditional council, chief executive, and safety officer would accompany Zoomlion to inspect and fumigate the inspected areas. The intention is to ensure that all neighborhoods are sufficiently dry for decontamination.
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However, Mr. Fenu from the VRA urged residents to exercise caution and wait for the completion of the fumigation exercise before returning to their homes. The VRA's priority is to guarantee the safety of all individuals by conducting comprehensive inspections and fumigation to ensure that the homes are secure and habitable once again.
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