Odaw holds its banks after heavy rainfall - but concerns linger over dredging approach

After years of flooding fears, the Odaw River surprised everyone. Following Sunday’s heavy rain in Accra, it stayed within its banks. This spared nearby communities from the usual chaos. Residents credit this relief to ongoing dredging by the government.

While many appreciate the effort, some are skeptical about its long-term effects.

One resident near the Odaw expressed concerns to JoyNews. “They should know we’re in the rainy season,” he said. “Waiting for sand to dry before collecting it is not ideal.” He worries that debris will wash back into the drain and undo their work.

A nearby shoe vendor shared similar thoughts. “Dredging is good, but how sustainable is this method?” he asked. He fears all the filth and sand removed will return to the lagoon.

The dredging of the Odaw is part of a larger flood mitigation plan. This plan falls under the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development Project (GARID). It includes expanding drains in Kaneshie and reconstructing a major channel from Nima-Paloma to the Odaw outfall.

However, progress has been uneven across communities.

Several areas in Korle Klottey Municipality report no dredging activity. As a result, homes there experienced significant flooding after Sunday’s rain. Fortunately, no lives were lost during this event.

Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Allotey Gaisie stated his office seeks funding for a permanent solution. “We’ve had this challenge over the years,” he told JoyNews. “As an Assembly, we want to fix the problem—not just provide relief.”

He emphasized that it’s time to improve drainage systems permanently.

GARID Project Coordinator Dr. Ohene Sarfo acknowledged ongoing flood control efforts earlier this year. However, Minister for Works and Housing Kojo Oppong Nkrumah admitted progress has been slower than expected.

For now, while residents find hope in the calm Odaw River, they call for better flood management strategies before more rains arrive.