The Volta River Authority (VRA) has announced plans to engage relevant stakeholders regarding a potential controlled spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam.
VRA has issued a notice to over 40 stakeholders, including the Minister for the Interior and local assemblies within the dam’s catchment areas, indicating that engagement will commence immediately in anticipation of the possibility of spillage.
The notice states that this precautionary measure is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. It proposes to engage stakeholders to discuss the potential implications, mitigative measures, and information dissemination strategies.
This comes after the VRA previously commenced spilling excess water last year, which led to devastating flooding in the Lower Volta region. The 2023 controlled spillage lasted until October 30, 2023, when VRA announced its end.
The flooding affected over 88,000 people and displaced more than 5,000 homes. The government announced a GH¢220 million compensation package for the victims, with the President stating that GH¢80 million had been disbursed. However, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disputed the President’s GH¢80 million announcement, raising concerns about the actual amount disbursed.
Below is the statement from VRA
VR
