Physical Planners commend Mahama for swift action on waterway demolitions

The Local Government Service Association of Physical Planners praised President John Dramani for demolishing illegal structures on waterways.

Planner Gifty Nyarko, the National Interim President of the Association, commended this proactive action. She emphasized that these measures are crucial for environmental protection and resident safety.

Nyarko noted that this initiative promotes sustainable urban development. It also helps create livable cities for future generations.

During the National Eid-ul-Fitr prayers in Accra on March 31, 2025, President Mahama condemned unlawful construction on waterways. He linked these issues to severe flooding in several communities.

The Association believes the President's actions will reduce flooding risks. They will also help build resilient cities and protect wildlife habitats.

In an interview with Adom News on April 1, 2025, Madam Nyarko discussed achieving Goals 11 and 16 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She stressed the need to eliminate unauthorized buildings obstructing waterways.

She explained that the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925) empowers Municipal Assemblies to regulate land use. Section 121 specifically addresses unauthorized developments on waterways.

According to Act 925, unauthorized development occurs without a permit or violates permit conditions. Construction on waterways is considered unauthorized public space development under Section 121.

Authorized officers can prohibit or demolish such structures without notice if they cause environmental harm or interfere with public space use.

Madam Nyarko clarified that "public space" includes areas like parks and utility spaces. Assemblies can act without a court order if structures pose risks to safety or health.

She recommended ensuring that questioned buildings are within public spaces causing environmental harm before demolition efforts begin.

Madam Nyarko also highlighted challenges faced by Municipal Assemblies in removing illegal structures.

One major issue is insufficient enforcement capacity within many MMDAs. They often lack resources and personnel needed for monitoring unauthorized buildings effectively.

She pointed out difficulties faced by Physical Planning Departments due to a lack of vehicles and technology for inspections. This hampers their ability to enforce regulations against illegal construction effectively.

Planner Kofi Yeboah emphasized stricter enforcement of planning regulations is necessary. He stressed regular inspections and timely demolitions to prevent unauthorized constructions.

Mr. Yeboah called for fair enforcement free from political interference or corruption. He urged community involvement in demolition efforts as well.

He asked the government to provide resources for Planning Inspectorate Units within Assemblies so they can perform their duties efficiently.

Additionally, Planner Ashmond Baffoe noted ambiguities in legal frameworks complicate enforcement regarding land use on waterways.

He mentioned slow legal processes allow violators to exploit loopholes delaying demolitions. Political interference from influential figures further hinders progress in these matters.

Planner Kwabena Asiedu Bediako highlighted resistance from residents fearing displacement due to illegal structure removals. This makes it difficult for MMDAs to act swiftly without facing public opposition.

He acknowledged corruption contributes significantly as illegal constructions are sometimes overlooked due to indiscipline in the land market. Economic factors also play a role; many build on waterways due to a lack of affordable housing options.

Mr Nyarko pointed out land ownership disputes contribute significantly as well. Many build on waterways because of unclear ownership or informal transactions lacking proper documentation.

He noted some residents may not understand the environmental risks associated with building on waterways either. Without education about long-term effects, people view construction as an immediate housing solution instead of considering future flooding risks.

Nyarko stressed stopping chiefs from granting verbal authorizations instead of official permits is essential too.

Another significant issue is inadequate topographical analysis in local planning maps.

Nyarko emphasized incorporating detailed studies into planning processes ensures safe communities near waterways.

Such analysis helps determine land suitability based on features like soil type and water flow patterns.

Mr Nyarko advocated collaborating with Survey and Mapping Divisions for base map preparation supporting local planning efforts.

He acknowledged natural disasters complicate situations further while stressing inter-agency cooperation is vital.

MMDAs often struggle with coordination and gaining public support during such initiatives.

He concluded by urging MMDAs prioritize urban planning through sufficient resource allocation.

Proper funding enables comprehensive strategies including zoning, environmental protection measures, infrastructure development preventing illegal construction while supporting sustainable growth overall.