Floods Displace Hundreds, Homes Submerged After Bridge Overflow

Incessant rains and the collapse of a temporary bridge have plunged the Okyereko area of Ghana’s Central Region into a humanitarian crisis. Over 150 residents have been displaced from their homes, with floodwaters submerging approximately 70 houses.

A Perfect Storm of Events

The flooding disaster unfolded after the Okyereko bridge, situated over the Ayensu River, overflowed. The bridge is currently undergoing expansion, necessitating the diversion of traffic onto a temporary structure. However, this temporary bridge proved no match for the relentless downpour and consequently gave way, further worsening the flooding situation.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) is at the forefront of assessing the damage and coordinating relief efforts. According to NADMO officials, over 150 people have been displaced due to the floodwaters. The Gomoa East District Director of NADMO, Robert Hackman, confirmed the collapse of three houses, thankfully without any reported casualties.

Those affected by the floods have sought temporary refuge in a nearby Church of Pentecost building.

The Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) has issued a public statement advising motorists to use alternative routes due to the closure of the Okyereko bridge.

“Motorists travelling from Cape Coast to Accra are advised to use the Winneba-Ojobi-Akoti Junction on the N1,” the GHA advised. “We understand the inconvenience this situation has caused and want to assure the public that our engineers are working tirelessly to address the situation as swiftly as possible.”

Relief Efforts and Long-Term Solutions

The immediate priority for authorities is to ensure the safety and well-being of the displaced residents. Providing emergency shelter, food, and medical aid is crucial in the short term.

The long-term solution lies in repairing the Okyereko bridge and the damaged temporary structure. Furthermore, restoring normal traffic flow on the N1 highway is essential for the movement of people and goods within the region.

However, authorities haven’t yet announced a timeline for the completion of repairs, leaving residents and commuters in a state of uncertainty.

This incident raises concerns about the adequacy of temporary infrastructure used during construction projects, particularly in areas prone to heavy rainfall. Experts have emphasized the importance of conducting thorough risk assessments and employing robust temporary structures to prevent similar disasters in the future.

Community Resilience and the Need for Transparency

The resilience of the Okyereko community is being severely tested. While residents grapple with the immediate aftermath of the flooding, they also face an anxious wait for information about the repairs and their ability to return home.

Transparency from authorities regarding the repair timeline and the overall strategy for mitigating future flooding risks will be crucial in regaining the trust and cooperation of the affected community.

Source: Graphic Online