Work begins to reclaim Lafa basin to curb flooding in Mallam, Weija

A massive project has begun to restore the Lafa water retention basin in Mallam, aimed at reducing flooding in nearby communities. The Ghana Armed Forces, specifically the 48 Engineer Regiment, are leading the effort, using heavy machinery to remove tons of compacted waste and dredge debris for transport to a landfill in Nsawam.

The Post-Flood Mitigation Task Force, headed by Deputy Chief of Staff Mr Stan Xoese Dogbe, is overseeing the operation, which includes demolishing illegal structures and buildings within the basin. The task, expected to last several weeks, is being carried out to prevent a recurrence of the devastating floods that hit Blue Lagoon, Mallam, Weija, and parts of Dansoman during heavy rains on June 29.

The Head of Drainage at the Ghana Hydrological Authority, Mr Richard Kofi Amekor, highlighted the challenge of clearing the solid waste, noting that years of illegal dumping and land encroachment have severely silted the basin. He assured that once the excavation is complete, the natural state of the basin will be restored to handle significant rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding.

The basin, which originates from Mallam-Gbawe Zero, flows through various communities before discharging into the sea. The ongoing project aims to mitigate the impact of future floods and is open to collaboration with the private sector.