G/A Minister Leads Demolition Of Unauthorized Structures At Sakumo Ramsar Site On Prez. John Mahama’s Orders To Protect Wetlands – GhArticles.com

The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC), led by Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, has commenced a sweeping demolition exercise targeting illegal structures erected on waterways and ecologically sensitive wetlands.

The initiative comes in the wake of devastating floods that recently hit parts of Accra.

The demolition, which began on Tuesday, May 27, focuses on properties encroaching on Ramsar sites in Tema, Klagon, and the Sakumo wetlands, areas vital for flood control and natural drainage.

Over the years, these wetlands have been increasingly encroached upon by unauthorized developers, contributing to the region’s worsening flood crisis.

Speaking at the demolition site, Minister Linda Ocloo emphasized that affected property owners had been notified ahead of time and had ignored multiple warnings and stop-work orders.

“They are aware. In fact, there has been an engagement, they are very much aware of this exercise,” she stated.

She also underlined the importance of the action, describing it as a necessary move to safeguard lives, protect property, and restore the environment.

Environmental experts have consistently cautioned that illegal developments on wetlands disrupt Accra’s drainage system, worsening the city’s vulnerability to flooding during heavy rains.

The REGSEC has pledged to carry out the demolition in phases across other flood-prone areas, with support from environmental agencies and city planners to enforce long-term flood mitigation measures.

Residents and developers are being urged to cooperate with the ongoing operation.