The Ministry of Works and Housing has announced plans to intensify enforcement against developers encroaching on wetlands and waterways, as part of renewed efforts to tackle persistent flooding in the country.
Sector Minister Kenneth Gilbert Adjei said illegal land reclamation and construction on natural drainage paths continue to undermine government interventions, especially during the rainy season.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, April 28, after inspecting a wetland at Dansoman Otodjor in the Greater Accra Region, the Minister issued a strong warning to offenders, stressing that such practices will not be tolerated.
He indicated that authorities will move decisively to demolish unauthorised structures and sanction individuals found culpable.
“We are going to come after those people building in the waterways. With the rains about to start, we will not allow what they are doing to cause flooding in Accra,” he stated.
“We will move in to remove all those structures they are trying to put up, and they will be penalised,” he warned.
Mr Adjei also cautioned local assemblies against the issuance of permits for developments on wetlands. He warned that officials who approve such projects will be held accountable under the law.
“I will advise our local authorities that those giving unnecessary permits for buildings on waterways will be identified, and the law will deal with them,” he added.
The Minister underscored the importance of enforcing planning regulations to preserve natural drainage systems and minimise flood risks in vulnerable communities.
The move forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen flood prevention measures as the rainy season approaches.
