Tuesday’s Weija Dam spillage was only a trial, actual spillage began today – GWL

The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) clarified that the water released from the Weija Dam on Tuesday, September 8, was merely a trial run of the spill gates, with the true spillage commencing at 6 am on Wednesday, September 9. Stanley Martey, Head of Public Relations and Communications at GWL, explained that the trial was undertaken to confirm the proper functioning of the dam's hydraulic spill gates before the official start of the spillage.

The actual spillage began this morning at 6 am, Martey stated, contrasting with reports suggesting it had already commenced on Tuesday. The difference, he clarified, was largely technical, as the trial was conducted to ensure the gates' effectiveness when needed, as malfunctions could pose significant problems. Martey also explained that the frequency of the dam's spillages depends on the inflow of water from upstream sources, with periods of heavy inflow leading to more frequent spillages, and lower inflows allowing for better water level management without excess release.

The decision to begin spillage is also influenced by the dam's water level and anticipated rainfall, with the maximum operating level being around 47 feet. During the major rainy season, GWCL may initiate spillage earlier due to the likelihood of increased rainfall and inflows, while during the minor rainy season, the company manages the dam's water levels in anticipation of expected rainfall and inflows, which is why the current spillage commenced when the dam reached around 45 feet.