The flood and fire disasters that occurred in Accra on Wednesday, June 3, could have been prevented through greater compliance with regulations and stronger enforcement of existing laws, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Akweley Ocloo, has said.
For far too long, she said, unauthorised developments, indiscriminate waste disposal, encroachment on waterways, disregard for planning regulations and weak enforcement mechanisms have undermined efforts to build a safe, orderly and resilient capital.
The consequences are reflected not only in damaged infrastructure and economic losses but, most importantly, in the loss of human lives, she said.
“I must state unequivocally that responsibility does not rest solely with members of the public. We must also acknowledge that lapses in oversight and enforcement within some public institutions have contributed to these challenges,” she said in a statement dated June 4.
As Regional Minister, she added that she is committed to ensuring that accountability, professionalism and strict adherence to the law become the hallmarks of governance within the Greater Accra Region.
In response to these events, the government, through the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, will immediately implement a series of measures aimed at improving public safety, strengthening regulatory compliance and protecting lives and property.
