Ghana is facing a severe humanitarian crisis as the Volta River Authority (VRA) initiated a controlled spillage from the Akosombo Dam, leading to unprecedented flooding in the lower Volta Basin. The spillage, necessary to prevent the dam’s overtopping and ensure its integrity, has resulted in the overflow of the river’s banks, displacing thousands of residents in nine different district assemblies across the Volta and Eastern Regions. The flooding, exacerbated by unpredictable rainfall patterns attributed to climate change, has brought significant challenges to the affected communities.
Impact on Communities:
The flooding has caused widespread displacement and destruction. Hospitals in Sogakope and Adidome have been inundated, endangering patients’ lives. Power cuts have left numerous areas in darkness, while disrupted transportation has isolated communities. Residents, forced to use boats and canoes without life-jackets, face additional risks. Infrastructure such as the GRIDCo sub-station at Fievie, Sogakope, was inundated, leading to a shutdown.
Necessity of Spillage:
The controlled spillage, although causing hardship, is essential to prevent a catastrophic failure of the dam. The maximum safe operational level of the Akosombo dam is 277.5 ft (84.6m). The water level recently peaked just below this, compelling the spillage of excess water to avert potential disaster. Ghana’s Deputy Chief Executive-Services, VRA, Kenneth Mensah Arthur emphasized the critical nature of protecting the national asset.
Response and Challenges:
Ghana’s navy has been engaged in rescue efforts, saving over 8,000 people. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has established holding areas and provided relief aid. However, the continuous rise in water levels due to ongoing rainfall presents challenges. The displaced residents, despite warnings and simulation exercises conducted by VRA, have suffered losses and face difficulties in rebuilding their lives.
Climate Change Impact:
Officials attribute the heavy inflows from upstream of the Volta dams to climate change. Increased water volumes from Burkina Faso’s catchment areas, linked to global warming, have intensified the crisis. The situation highlights the pressing need for climate change mitigation measures and reinforces the urgency of addressing climate-related challenges in Ghana.
While the controlled spillage has caused temporary hardship, it stands as a vital measure to prevent a more significant disaster. Balancing the complexities of managing natural resources with ensuring citizens’ safety underscores the challenges faced by Ghana and other regions vulnerable to climate change-induced disasters.