Akosombo Dam: VRA to engage stakeholders on potential spillage of excess water

The Volta River Authority (VRA) has announced its intention to engage relevant stakeholders of a potential spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam.

This was contained in a notice signed by VRA’s Deputy Chief Executive in Charge of Services, Ing. Ken Arthur, to over 40 stakeholders, including the Minister for the Interior and all the assemblies within the dam’s catchment areas.

The notice indicated that VRA will follow up later with the dates and times for the engagement awaiting the possibility of spillage if necessary.

“The Volta River Authority (VRA) intends to commence engagements regarding the potential controlled spillage of water from the Akosombo Dam. This precautionary measure is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and ensuring the safety of our communities,” the notice read.

It added that “We propose to engage you and the relevant team to discuss the potential implications, mitigative measures and information dissemination.”

In September 2023, the VRA began releasing excess water from the Akosombo Dam due to a significant rise in inflow and high water levels.

This necessary measure aimed to prevent potential dam failure, but it came at a high cost to the surrounding communities. The spillage affected numerous districts, displacing around 39,000 people and destroying properties worth millions of Ghana cedis.

The flooding brought life to a standstill. Schools closed, disrupting the education of many students, while farming and trading activities were halted, severely impacting local economies.

The 2023 controlled spillage lasted until October 30, 2023, when VRA announced its end.

Government also announced a GH¢220 million compensation package for the victims, which President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during his 67th Independence Day speech in Koforidua on March 6, 2023, said GH¢80 million had been disbursed.

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