Coastal Flooding in Ghana’s Volta Region: Emergency Declared as Thousands Displaced

Heavy waves in Ghana’s Volta Region have displaced around 1,000 residents, damaging homes and schools. Local authorities declared a state of emergency, with Agavedzi being the hardest hit. Experts warn that climate change is worsening coastal erosion, increasing the urgency for comprehensive mitigation efforts. Essential services and infrastructure face significant disruption in affected communities.

Heavy coastal waves have wreaked havoc in Ghana’s Volta Region since Saturday, resulting in the displacement of approximately 1,000 individuals and the destruction of homes and educational institutions. In response to the disaster, local authorities have declared a state of emergency, with recovery efforts now underway.

The community of Agavedzi, located near the Togo border, endured the most significant destruction with 51 homes affected and over 300 residents compelled to evacuate. Volta Regional Minister James Gunu visited the impacted areas and stated, “We are aware of your situation and are determined to take proactive measures.”

Coastal flooding is a persistent challenge in Ghana; however, local residents express frustration regarding the slow response from authorities in implementing long-term solutions. A previously initiated sea defense project remains unfinished, thus leaving many communities exposed to the risks associated with ocean surges.

Experts have highlighted that climate change exacerbates coastal erosion in Ghana, where roughly 25% of the population resides along the 550-kilometer coastline. Fishermen and community leaders are advocating for strategic measures, including dredging, to effectively manage the ocean’s encroachment.

The recent inundation has impacted multiple locales, such as Some, Salakope, and Amutinu, disrupting essential aspects of daily life, including education and healthcare services. The advancing tides pose a significant threat to critical infrastructure, with Kumawu raising concerns that neglecting the situation may result in the flooding of the vital Keta-Aflao road, jeopardizing crucial transportation routes.

Noble Wadjah, the coordinator of the Coastal Civil Society Organisations Forum, cautioned that a failure to address these issues could lead to catastrophic results. To assist those affected, health workers from the Ghana Health Service are scheduled to conduct medical screenings, and a clinical psychologist will offer support for trauma-induced stress due to the incident.

In summary, the recent coastal flooding in Ghana’s Volta Region has displaced about 1,000 residents, leading to significant damage to homes and vital infrastructure. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency, while residents and experts call for comprehensive measures to mitigate future impacts amid ongoing climate challenges. Immediate support is being mobilized to assist those affected, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to protect coastal communities.

Original Source: newscentral.africa