Residents of Tetegu implemented their own dredging projects to keep their community flood-free for four years. This self-reliance ended recently when the Weija Dam experienced a controlled spillage, causing widespread flooding and displacing hundreds.
The community's proactive measures, including clearing the estuary, had successfully protected homes and businesses from inundation. Following the dam's spillage, residents once again found themselves wading through knee-deep waters. They relied on canoes for essential movement, including transporting belongings and accessing food supplies. Vulnerable individuals also needed assistance for evacuation.
This situation arrives amidst ongoing concerns about infrastructure maintenance in Ghana. The Weija Dam's water levels exceeded safe operating limits, prompting Ghana Water Limited (GWL) to initiate the spillage. Communities like Tetegu, Sampah Valley, and Choice became severely affected by the rising water levels. The failure of the estuary to drain efficiently complicated the situation.
Mawuenyega Atukpa, the Assembly Member for Tetegu, stated that community members had taken it upon themselves to dredge the dam. He explained that this had been necessary because the Ghana Water Company had not been attending to the matter. He elaborated that the areas they could not maintain with their limited resources are where the water flowed in and caused the current floods. He further alleged that GWL did not check if the estuary was open before spilling water. This oversight, he claims, sends floodwaters back into the community.
Mr. Atukpa further criticized GWL for failing to provide advance notice before the dam spillage. He noted that an information centre in the area usually announces impending spillages. However, this crucial communication was absent during the recent event. This lack of warning hindered preparedness efforts for both residents and local authorities. The Municipal Chief Executive for Weija-Gbawe also confirmed not receiving prior notification, impacting response strategies.
GWL has maintained that the spillage was necessary due to increasing inflows pushing water levels beyond safety thresholds. They issued warnings to downstream communities to relocate from flood-prone areas, anticipating further rainfall. Mr. Atukpa is now advocating for long-term engineering solutions, including permanently opening the estuary. He also stressed the need for consistent government-funded dredging and improved drainage systems within the Tetegu area. The lack of gutters was highlighted as a significant problem.
Emergency services continue evacuation efforts while many homes and businesses remain submerged. The flooding has caused considerable losses for residents and local enterprises. The incident also highlights potential weaknesses in national disaster management protocols and the crucial role of local engagement.