A devastating mudslide in Adaklu-Helekpe has destroyed at least five houses and buried nine vehicles. This disaster occurred after heavy rainfall late Wednesday evening. The mudslide sent huge rocks, mud, and debris down from the nearly 600-metre Adaklu Mountain. It affected parts of the community, causing widespread destruction and panic among residents.
The incident also resulted in the death of approximately 50 goats and other livestock. Fortunately, two people trapped under the rubble were rescued alive by local residents. Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza visited the affected community on Thursday. He was joined by the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, and the District Chief Executive for the area, Jerry Yao Ameko.
This latest disaster is the second major incident involving the Adaklu Mountain in recent years. A similar rockfall event occurred in 2017. Mr. Agbodza warned that the community could face even greater danger if immediate steps are not taken. He expressed gratitude that no human lives were lost in the Wednesday event. He noted that injuries recorded were not critical. The minister suggested that the timing of the incident, at night, prevented a worse outcome. Many people are usually on the mountain during the day for farming and other activities.
Minister Agbodza called for broader discussions within the community. He suggested restricting farming activities around the mountain. He believes continuous environmental degradation and indiscriminate tree cutting may contribute to the area's instability. The focus should now shift towards restoring the ecology around the mountain. Alternative economic opportunities like tourism could benefit residents without putting lives at risk. The Volta Regional Minister, Mr. Gunu, warned residents to stay away from the affected area. He described it as an active disaster and security zone. He advised extreme caution for anyone visiting the area. The safety of residents and visitors cannot be fully guaranteed.
Authorities have directed residents living close to the mountain to temporarily evacuate. Geological engineers are assessing the stability of the area. With heavier rains expected in the coming months, the risk of additional mudslides remains high. Urgent interventions are necessary to prevent future disasters. The 2017 rockfall disaster has revived painful memories for many residents. This deepens fears over the long-term safety of communities beneath Adaklu Mountain.