Mountain mudslide sparks panic in Adaklu-Helekpe

Residents of Adaklu-Helekpe in the Volta Region are living in fear after a mudslide from a nearby mountain swept through parts of the community following heavy rains.

The incident, which occurred after hours of continuous rainfall, left several homes and farmlands covered in mud and debris, forcing some families to temporarily abandon their properties for safety.

The mudslide carrying heavy rocks from the 600-metre Adaklu Mountain buried at least five houses and nine vehicles.

Two people, a man and a woman, who were trapped in the debris, were rescued by local townsmen just as personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) arrived at the scene.

About 50 goats and other livestock perished in the incident, which has thrown the community into a state of fear and anxiety.

Community members say the situation has created panic among residents, especially those living close to the mountain slopes, as cracks and loose soil continue to raise fears of another possible mudslide.

Although no deaths have been reported, residents say the damage to property and crops could affect livelihoods in the farming community. Some roads in the area were also partially blocked, making movement difficult.

Local authorities and disaster management officials are expected to assess the extent of the destruction and determine immediate support for affected families.

Residents are meanwhile calling on government agencies to provide urgent assistance and put in place measures to prevent future disasters, especially as the rainy season intensifies.

The incident has renewed concerns about environmental safety and the vulnerability of communities situated near mountainous areas during periods of heavy rainfall.