The Volta River Authority (VRA) has assured the public that no decision has been made to discharge water from the Akosombo Dam.
Mr Francis Abban, Manager for Corporate Communications and Branding at VRA, addressed the community leaders during the Authority’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) sensitization meeting held in Krobo Odumase.
The meeting, part of VRA’s annual community engagement and sensitization initiatives, aimed to inform stakeholders and communities within the Authority’s operational areas about its emergency preparedness plan.
Over the past three weeks, VRA has conducted a series of community engagements across 10 districts south of the Akosombo Dam to update them on the emergency preparedness measures in place.
Discussions have focused on field studies to determine the current levels of wetness in these districts and the potential impact of a precautionary discharge from the Akosombo Dam.
The ongoing dialogue with community leaders aims to foster strong relationships and a common understanding of the steps needed to preserve life and property during the rainy season.
The analysis indicated that, if water is discharged with caution, it will remain within the riverbanks.
However, low-lying areas, wetlands, and structures built along the riverbanks may experience minimal wetness.
Areas identified
Areas identified include the Ada East district in the Greater Accra region, as well as the Keta, Anloga, and North and South Tongu districts in the Volta region.
Mr. Abban explained that VRA is proactively engaging in public education while closely monitoring reservoir intake levels, which are currently lower than at the same time last year.
He reassured the communities that VRA is prepared to take all necessary measures to protect life and property during the rainy season.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Lower Manya Krobo District, Simon Kweku Tetteh, praised VRA’s EPP and urged traditional and community leaders to disseminate the information widely.
He emphasized the importance of being well-informed about VRA’s activities and plans to ensure community safety.
“This information is not just for your personal consumption but for onward distribution to the people within your assemblies and electoral areas,” he stated.
The Divisional Chief of Kpong, Nene Kpabitey, expressed the community’s readiness to collaborate with VRA to ensure safety.
“We are all ready to support and contribute to ensure the safety of everyone,” he said, highlighting the importance of traditional leaders working together with VRA to prevent any adverse consequences in the event of a precautionary discharge.
