Tidal waves devastate Salakope-Amutsinu road: Youth protest as commuters stranded in Ketu South

A section of the Salakope-Amutsinu coastal road in Ketu South is nearly impassable. Violent tidal waves have hit the area, stranding hundreds of commuters. This has caused tension between frustrated youth and commercial drivers.

The coastal road connects Keta to Denu. Aggressive sea waves have overtaken it, especially in the afternoons. Transport and economic activity along this vital route have been cut off. Passengers from both directions were left helpless, trapped by the advancing sea.

Frustration among residents grew when angry youth staged a spontaneous roadblock. They wanted to send a clear message: the government has failed them. A protester said, “We’re not doing this because we want to fight.” He added that they act only when no one listens.

Tension nearly escalated into a clash between youth and commercial drivers. Stranded drivers pleaded for passage to carry passengers to safety. It took hours of intervention from stakeholders to restore calm.

Ishmael Kwawununu, a coastal protection expert, described the situation as dire. He stated that citizens are suffering greatly with no government response. “Effective communication is key in any disaster,” he said. He criticized the lack of leadership and coordination during this crisis.

Kwawununu mediated between agitated youth and road users at the scene. He warned that without urgent intervention, things could worsen quickly. “If you do not communicate effectively with people in distress, consequences are worse,” he added.

Claudia C. Pinder, Vice President of CFO, was present during the incident. She expressed concern about humanitarian issues due to government inaction. “It saddens me to see this,” she said about children in danger and displaced families.

Pinder questioned where state officials were during this disaster. She noted that those who can make change were absent when needed most. “This is not just an environmental issue; it is a humanitarian crisis,” she emphasized.

As the sea continues its assault, residents wonder if anyone is listening to them. They fear being forgotten like other coastal communities already swallowed by waves.

This situation adds to challenges facing southern Volta communities. Rising sea levels and unchecked erosion continue to claim land and infrastructure here. Calls for government intervention have intensified recently but remain unfulfilled according to affected residents.