Ayensu River diversion: Three buildings collapse, over 150 houses submerged

The Kasoa-Cape Coast Highway, a vital route in Ghana, has experienced significant destruction due to the diversion of the Ayensu River by a contractor.

This Ayensu diversion has led to catastrophic flooding, resulting in the submersion of over 150 houses, the collapse of three homes, and widespread damage to farmlands.

The situation escalated on Wednesday, June 5, when the diversion impacted a critical bridge spanning the Ayensu River.

This river, originating in the Eastern Region, flows through the Gomoa East District before discharging into the sea.

The structural integrity of the bridge, crucial for connecting various communities across the Accra-Cape Coast Highway, was compromised by the diversion, causing a portion of the highway to cave in.

This incident stranded many commuters on Thursday morning, June 6, as the highway, a major artery for travel and transport, was rendered impassable.

Robert Hackman, the District Director for the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO) in Gomoa East, reported the dire situation to Citi News’ Calvis Tetteh.

Hackman highlighted the severe impact on local residents and infrastructure. “Currently, three houses have collapsed and almost 150 houses have been submerged, and as it stands now, it hasn’t been easy,” he stated.

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His report underscores the scale of the disaster, emphasizing the urgent need for alternative travel routes.

To mitigate the disruption, Hackman advised motorists to avoid the affected sections of the highway.

He recommended using the Winneba Junction route to reach Akotsi Junction instead of the Potsin-Okyereko stretch, which had become hazardous.

This guidance was crucial for ensuring the safety of travelers and preventing further accidents on the compromised road.

The flooding has not only displaced residents but also severely impacted agricultural activities.

Farmlands along the river’s path have been inundated, which threatens the livelihoods of many local farmers who rely on these lands for their sustenance and income.

The loss of crops and damage to agricultural infrastructure could have long-term economic repercussions for the community.

Efforts to address the situation began immediately, with local authorities and emergency services mobilizing to assess and manage the damage.

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However, the scale of the destruction has posed significant challenges. Restoring the highway and bridge is a priority, but it involves complex and potentially lengthy reconstruction efforts.

Meanwhile, temporary measures are being put in place to assist affected residents, including temporary shelters and relief supplies.

The incident has raised concerns about the planning and execution of infrastructural projects, particularly the environmental and social impacts of such diversions.

The diversion of the Ayensu River highlights the need for thorough risk assessments and contingency plans to prevent similar disasters in the future.

There is also a growing call for accountability from the contractor responsible for the diversion, as the damage inflicted on the community and infrastructure demands a thorough investigation and appropriate remedial actions.

In conclusion, the diversion of the Ayensu River has resulted in a significant disaster, affecting hundreds of homes, farmlands, and a crucial transportation route.

The response from local authorities and emergency services is ongoing, focusing on immediate relief and long-term recovery.

The incident underscores the importance of careful planning and risk management in infrastructural projects to safeguard communities and minimize environmental impacts.

As the affected regions work towards recovery, the lessons learned from this disaster will be vital in preventing future occurrences and ensuring more resilient infrastructure development.

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