The Volta River Authority (VRA) has announced plans to engage stakeholders regarding a potential spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam.
This move aims to maintain the structural integrity of the dam and ensure community safety.
In a notice signed by Ing. Ken Arthur, VRA’s Deputy Chief Executive in Charge of Services, over 40 stakeholders, including the Minister for the Interior and all assemblies within the dam’s catchment areas, were informed of the impending discussions.
"The Volta River Authority (VRA) intends to commence engagements regarding the potential controlled spillage of water from the Akosombo Dam. This precautionary measure is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and ensuring the safety of our communities," the notice read.
The engagement will cover the potential implications of the spillage, mitigative measures, and strategies for information dissemination to the affected parties.
The proactive approach follows the significant impact of the controlled spillage carried out from September 15 to October 30, 2023, which resulted in severe flooding in surrounding areas, particularly within the Lower Volta region.
The 2023 spillage affected over 88,000 people and damaged more than 5,000 homes, according to government figures.
In response, the government announced a GH¢220 million compensation package for the victims.
During his 67th Independence Day speech in Koforidua on March 6, 2023, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stated that GH¢80 million of the compensation had already been disbursed.
However, this claim was later disputed by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu.
As the VRA moves forward with its stakeholder engagements, it emphasizes the importance of community involvement and preparedness to mitigate the risks associated with any potential spillage from the Akosombo Dam.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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