The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo has announced a sweeping enforcement drive targeting unauthorized developments, encroachments and planning violations following a series of disasters that struck the capital on June 3.
The move comes in the wake of widespread flooding across parts of Accra, a major fire outbreak in the Central Business District and the collapse of a multi-storey building at Adenta New Site in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC), the Minister expressed condolences to families who lost relatives and those affected by the incidents, describing the events as a painful reminder of the challenges confronting the rapidly growing city.
While sympathizing with victims, the Minister argued that many of the incidents could have been avoided through stricter compliance with regulations and more effective enforcement of existing laws.
“For far too long, unauthorized developments, indiscriminate waste disposal, encroachment on waterways, disregard for planning regulations and weak enforcement mechanisms have undermined efforts to build a safe, orderly and resilient capital,” the statement said.
As part of the response, authorities will undertake a comprehensive audit of ongoing and recently completed multi-storey developments across the region. Buildings found to have violated approved permits, structural requirements or safety regulations will be subjected to legal and administrative sanctions.
The government also plans to intensify the removal of structures situated on waterways, drainage reservations, road reservations, green belts and other public spaces. Officials say the exercise is intended to improve drainage networks, reduce flood risks and protect public infrastructure.
In addition, enforcement agencies have been directed to strengthen monitoring of planning, building and environmental regulations. The Regional Coordinating Council will also reinforce its oversight functions through the Regional Spatial Planning Committee to improve development control across metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies.
The Minister acknowledged that responsibility for the recurring challenges extends beyond residents and developers, noting that shortcomings within some public institutions have contributed to the situation.
“I must state unequivocally that responsibility does not rest solely with members of the public. We must also acknowledge that lapses in oversight and enforcement within some public institutions have contributed to these challenges,” the statement noted.
Authorities say the measures will be implemented consistently and without discrimination as part of efforts to improve safety and resilience in the region.
The Minister further appealed to residents, landlords, developers, traders, transport operators, traditional leaders, faith-based organizations and public officials to support the initiative, stressing that collective adherence to regulations is essential to safeguarding lives and property in the capital.
