The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has placed the region on heightened operational alert as authorities step up measures to curb flooding risks and maintain security ahead of the peak rainy season and this year’s Homowo celebrations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 10, and signed by the Greater Accra Regional Minister and REGSEC Chairperson, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, the decision follows an emergency assessment of the region’s flood-prone areas and emerging security concerns.
The Council said it has rolled out a comprehensive response plan aimed at reducing flood risks, safeguarding lives and property, and ensuring peace and order during the festive period.
According to the statement, intelligence reports and terrain assessments carried out with support from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) identified several communities and locations requiring urgent attention.
Among the areas classified as critical risk corridors are Odawna Sahara and Adabraka Official Town in the Korle Klottey Municipality.
The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has identified several communities as high-risk flashpoints for flooding and security incidents as the region braces for the peak of the rainy season and this year’s Homowo festivities.
Among the areas flagged are Alajo Central, including the D.K. Poison and Polo Park enclaves, Berlin Bridge, and parts of the Downside area within the Ayawaso North and Ayawaso East municipalities. Others include Jelil Estate Junction, Baba Yara area and Akorli Down in Madina, as well as Osu Alata, Osu Doku and the Abelemkpe Methodist Church enclave.
The Council also listed additional communities for closer monitoring, including Old Barrier, Choice, Tetegu and Oblogo in the Weija-Gbawe Municipality; Manhean, Afuaman and Medie in the Ga West Municipality; and Dome Crossing, GAEC Road, Christian Village Drain and sections of the Dakyibi River catchment in the Ga East Municipality.
REGSEC said its seasonal plan combines flood prevention with enhanced security measures ahead of Homowo, stressing that public safety and the protection of cultural activities remain top priorities.
As part of the interventions, the Greater Accra Regional Minister has directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to intensify desilting works and clear waste and debris blocking major drains and waterways across the region.
The Council explained that the exercise is being carried out urgently to improve drainage systems and reduce the impact of expected heavy rainfall.
It also announced increased security presence in traditional areas expected to host major Homowo events, citing concerns that large gatherings could be exploited by individuals linked to unresolved chieftaincy and land disputes.
Joint security teams are expected to step up intelligence gathering and visibility patrols, while the Ghana National Fire Service and other emergency agencies have finalised crowd management and traffic control plans for key celebration grounds.
Residents in flood-prone communities have been urged to stay alert and adhere strictly to safety instructions issued by authorities.
According to REGSEC, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has already mapped out safe shelters that can be activated in the event of evacuations and is prepared to relocate residents if rising waters pose an immediate danger.
“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain our foremost priority. Government, through the Regional Coordinating Council, security services, NADMO and all stakeholders, will not sit idly by while disaster unfolds. We are strengthening the trust between citizens and the state. We call on residents of Greater Accra to cooperate fully, observe safety precautions and report emergencies promptly,” Regional Minister Linda Ocloo stated.
The Council assured the public that all relevant state institutions remain on high alert and ready to respond swiftly to any emergencies as the region enters the peak of the rainy season.