Ghana’s coastal Volta Region has been struck by severe tidal waves, displacing approximately 1,000 residents and damaging homes and schools. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency and initiated relief efforts. The ongoing threat of coastal flooding, exacerbated by climate change, has raised concerns among residents and experts, calling for comprehensive solutions to mitigate future risks.
Heavy tidal waves have inundated Ghana’s coastal Volta Region since Saturday, leading to the displacement of approximately 1,000 residents and substantial destruction of homes and educational facilities. In response to this crisis, local authorities have declared a state of emergency to facilitate relief efforts for the affected population.
The community of Agavedzi, located near the Togo border, experienced the most severe impact, with 51 houses damaged, resulting in over 300 individuals being forced to evacuate. Volta Regional Minister James Gunu expressed awareness of the dire situation and the commitment to implementing proactive measures to alleviate the disaster’s effects.
Despite the historical recurrence of coastal flooding in Ghana, residents have criticized governmental bodies for their sluggish response and lack of long-term solutions. An incomplete sea defence project initiated years ago continues to expose many communities to ocean surges, heightening their vulnerability to further flooding.
Experts have indicated that climate change is exacerbating coastal erosion throughout Ghana, where roughly one-quarter of its population resides along the extensive 550-kilometer coastline. Fishermen and local leaders have called for a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the adverse effects, which includes necessary dredging efforts to counter the incursion of the sea.
The recent tidal surge has disrupted life in multiple communities, such as Some, Salakope, and Amutinu, significantly impacting daily routines, education, and healthcare services. Moreover, the encroaching sea poses a threat to critical infrastructure, with concerns raised that the Keta-Aflao road could be compromised if the situation does not improve, resulting in essential transportation routes being cut off.
Noble Wadjah, coordinator of the Coastal Civil Society Organisations Forum, cautioned that ongoing inaction would lead to disastrous consequences for affected communities. To address immediate health concerns, personnel from the Ghana Health Service plan to conduct medical screenings, along with a clinical psychologist available to assist individuals experiencing trauma due to the disaster.
In conclusion, the recent tidal surges in Ghana’s Volta Region have significantly affected numerous communities, displacing residents and causing extensive damage. While local authorities are declaring emergencies and initiating relief efforts, the call for sustained governmental action to address the underlying issues of coastal vulnerability remains critical. Climate change continues to worsen the situation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies and infrastructure investments to protect at-risk populations.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
