The Council of State is pushing for stronger enforcement of urban planning and construction codes as a way to reduce persistent floods and lower disaster risks nationwide.
In a release sent to the Ghana News Agency following Monday’s heavy downpours, the Council urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to apply planning regulations without exception.
It said assemblies must ensure builders follow approved standards, block construction in areas prone to flooding, and improve upkeep of drains, sanitation services, and waste collection.
The rains killed at least 12 people, forced thousands from their homes, submerged houses, and blocked key roads in parts of Accra and other areas.
According to the Council, the cycle of flooding is largely linked to poor waste disposal, blocked drains, illegal building on watercourses and wetlands and lax enforcement of planning and construction laws.
It stressed that preventing floods must come before managing them after they occur. The Council also advised that the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) should be part of designing major public works and private developments.
It said NADMO should carry out risk assessments ahead of projects, especially in zones vulnerable to floods and other hazards. The Council extended condolences to flood victims, with particular concern for communities in Greater Accra and other high-risk areas.
“Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones, suffered injuries, been displaced from their homes, or lost property and livelihoods,” the statement read, noting that “the nation must stand in solidarity with all those affected.”
The Council praised the Government, NADMO, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Police Service, medical personnel, volunteers, and other responders for their rescue and relief work.
It noted that NADMO had recently set out steps to boost readiness and response, including rebuilding its volunteer system with an updated register of people ready to help in crises. The Council added that NADMO’s coverage at national, regional, and district levels should improve monitoring and speed up emergency action.
