President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to develop a new city outside Accra as part of a long-term strategy to address congestion, rapid urbanisation, and the recurring flooding challenges facing the capital.
The proposal was made after the President conducted an aerial assessment of communities severely affected by Monday’s heavy rains, which claimed at least nine lives, displaced many residents, and caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure across the Greater Accra Region.
According to President Mahama, while government is implementing immediate measures such as improving drainage systems and providing relief to affected communities, a more sustainable solution lies in reducing the population and developmental pressure on Accra.
He explained that government intends to relocate some major public institutions and create a new growth centre that will encourage people and businesses to settle outside the capital rather than concentrating development within Accra.
The President disclosed that the project is envisioned as a long-term national undertaking expected to span approximately 20 years. Technical experts are currently working on the designs and master plan for the proposed city, after which land will be allocated for residential, commercial, and institutional development.
He added that government plans to provide essential infrastructure, including roads, water, and electricity, to support the growth of the new city and make it attractive for residents and investors.
The proposal comes in the wake of one of Accra’s most devastating flood incidents in recent years. Several communities, including Circle, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Achimota, Weija, Madina, Adenta, Lapaz, and parts of Spintex, were submerged, disrupting transportation, businesses, and academic activities.
The disaster has renewed concerns about Accra’s rapid population growth, unplanned settlements, encroachment on waterways, and inadequate infrastructure. Urban development experts have long argued that these factors significantly contribute to the city’s vulnerability to flooding.
Government officials believe that establishing a new administrative and economic hub with modern infrastructure could help ease congestion in Accra, improve urban planning, and promote balanced national development.
Meanwhile, emergency response agencies, including the National Disaster Management Organisation, the Ghana National Fire Service, and the Ghana Police Service, continue rescue, relief, and assessment operations in affected communities.
Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious, avoid flood-prone areas, and cooperate with ongoing recovery efforts as the country works to recover from the disaster.
Source: myjoyonline.com
