Youth Protest Against Opening of Flood Control Gates at Keta Lagoon

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Keta, Emmanuel Gemega, has announced an emergency stakeholder meeting in response to the contentious issue of opening flood control gates at Havedzi, Xorvi, and Kedzi. The aim of opening these flood gates is to facilitate the release of excess water from the Keta Lagoon into the sea, reducing the risk of flooding in communities spanning the Ketu South and Keta Municipalities, as well as the Anloga District.

Efforts to open these gates encountered resistance from local youth, who gathered at the site to express their opposition. The youth cited historical concerns, specifically referencing a similar situation in 1963, in which they believe opening the sand strip would make their communities vulnerable to severe flooding.

In response, Mr. Gemega clarified that the current initiative incorporates advanced scientific measures to carefully regulate the water flow into the sea. He emphasized the importance of these measures in preventing uncontrolled flooding.

Despite this explanation, engineers from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) have voiced apprehension regarding the Assembly’s decision to cut through the sand strip. The MCE, however, stands firm in his conviction that the GPHA engineers’ concerns are unfounded. He provided assurance that the necessary precautions have been taken to address any unforeseen developments.

The contentious issue of opening flood control gates at Keta Lagoon remains a topic of significant concern, with the local youth and GPHA engineers expressing reservations, while local authorities emphasize the implementation of improved scientific measures to mitigate the risk of flooding.

Source: GBC News