The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has issued a 21-day eviction notice to residents and property owners occupying the buffer zone of the Kpeshie Lagoon at Laboma Beach in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, warning that unauthorized structures will be demolished after the deadline.
The directive forms part of the government’s ongoing flood control measures aimed at reclaiming waterways, restoring natural drainage systems, and preventing illegal development on protected lands across the Greater Accra Region.
Government Targets Illegal Structures to Reduce Flooding
According to REGSEC, years of silting at the Kpeshie Lagoon, coupled with the construction of unauthorised buildings within the lagoon’s buffer zone, have significantly increased the area’s susceptibility to flooding during the rainy season.
The planned demolition exercise is expected to remove obstructions, improve water flow, and restore the lagoon’s natural drainage capacity as part of broader efforts to address recurring floods in Accra.
Residents Given 21 Days to Remove Structures
Speaking during an inspection of the site on Friday, August 7, Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo explained that authorities had intended to begin the demolition immediately but decided to grant residents a final 21-day grace period after concerns were raised that adequate notice had not been provided.
“We are currently at Laboma to assess the buildings located within the buffer zone. All structures situated within the buffer will be removed,” she said.
The Regional Minister urged affected occupants to voluntarily demolish structures located within the protected zone before the deadline expires.
“Initially, we were here to carry out the exercise, but we were informed that the occupants had not been given enough notice. We are therefore giving them 21 days. Those whose buildings fall within the buffer zone should either demolish them themselves within the period or REGSEC will return to undertake the demolition exercise,” she stated.
Accra Flood Prevention Measures Intensify
The demolition exercise is part of the government’s broader strategy to combat flooding in Accra by clearing illegal developments along waterways, wetlands, and drainage channels.
Authorities say strict enforcement of environmental regulations, land-use planning laws, and the protection of buffer zones will continue to safeguard lives, protect property, and improve flood resilience across flood-prone communities in the Greater Accra Region.
Source: newsthemegh.com