The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for chiefs who sell lands in waterways and flood-prone areas to be held accountable, warning that such practices contribute to flooding and endanger lives and property.
He made the remarks during a tour of flood-affected communities following the controlled spillage of the Weija Dam, which has displaced hundreds of residents in parts of the Greater Accra Region.
The visit was undertaken together with the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, as well as officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other local authorities.
The controlled release of water from the Weija Dam was triggered by rising water levels caused by heavy rainfall, leading to flooding in communities including Tetegu, Oblogo, and Weija. Many affected residents have been temporarily accommodated in schools and places of worship.
Speaking to journalists, the Ga Mantse expressed concern over the role of human activities in worsening flooding in the region, particularly the allocation and sale of lands in waterways and environmentally sensitive zones.
He stressed that traditional leaders who engage in such practices must be held responsible for their actions, noting that poor land use decisions continue to worsen disaster risks.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II also urged strict enforcement of planning regulations and environmental bylaws by government agencies, local assemblies, and traditional authorities.
He emphasized that no individual should be allowed to build in waterways, adding that while demolitions are difficult, they are necessary to prevent loss of life and recurring disasters.
Authorities are continuing assessment and relief efforts in affected communities as the impact of the Weija Dam spillage persists.
