Neglect and Devastation: Akosombo Dam Spillage Leaves Volta Communities Struggling

Communities downstream of the Akosombo Dam are reeling from the devastating impact of the dam’s spillage, which has caused widespread flooding and destruction of properties, farmland, and livelihoods along the Volta Lake and the Keta lagoon enclaves. However, the response from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government has been dishearteningly sluggish, leaving the affected population to bear the burden alone.

Despite prior notices from the Volta River Authority (VRA) regarding the impending spillage, the affected communities have been overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the damage as the government has failed to allocate sufficient resources to mitigate the anticipated consequences. Over 100 communities have been displaced or devastated as a result.

For communities along the vulnerable Keta Lagoon, including major towns like Keta, Anloga, and Aflao, the situation is doubly distressing as they were already grappling with the effects of relentless tidal waves that have ravaged coastal communities along the Gulf Coast.

Opposition Members of Parliament representing the affected constituencies have alleged that the government’s lack of response and indifference can be attributed to the fact that the area is a stronghold of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

In an interview on Class FM’s morning show, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie condemned the NPP government for turning a blind eye to the tragedy befalling the Volta Region. She expressed her disgust at what she considered discriminatory treatment by President Nana Akufo-Addo and his ruling party.

While the National Disaster Management Organization has made efforts to tour the affected communities and provide assistance, the scale of the damage requires comprehensive and sustained support.

The affected communities are now calling on the VRA to be held accountable for their alleged inadequate measures to mitigate the devastating effects of the spillage.

Fishermen, farmers, and residents living near the Volta Lake have borne the brunt of the spillage from the Akosombo Dam. Their fish cages have been destroyed, farmland submerged, and properties inundated with floodwaters. Estimates show that the financial losses incurred from the damages amount to several million cedis.

The VRA, responsible for the operation and regulation of the Akosombo Dam, faces accusations of negligence in implementing proper measures to prevent the destruction of properties and livelihoods. Community members emphasize the need for consultation and collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of those living downstream.

Affected businesses and individuals are appealing to the VRA for compensation to mitigate their losses. The floods have severely impacted the local economy, particularly the fisheries and agriculture sectors, jeopardizing the livelihoods of many. The Volta Region plays a significant role in the country’s food production.

As the affected communities continue to grapple with the aftermath, they are uniting to demand accountability from the government. They express hope that their calls for assistance, compensation, and a commitment to better practices will be heard and promptly addressed to prevent further devastation.

Whatsup News will closely monitor the situation and provide updates as the communities strive towards resolution and seek to rebuild their lives.