The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Weija-Gbawe, Felix Odartey Lamptey, has announced that the assembly has submitted engineering recommendations to the Ministry of Works and Housing aimed at constructing a permanent solution at the estuary channel to address recurring flooding.

He explained that the proposed intervention is modelled after the storm drain system at Korle Lagoon, which has significantly improved water flow and reduced flooding risks in that area.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr. Lamptey said:

“For the engineering aspects, we have made recommendations to the Ministry of Works and Housing. When you go to the Korle Gutter, they have done the storm drain, and if we can also get something similar at our estuary, it will help.”

He highlighted one of the major operational challenges faced during dam spillages.

“One of the challenges we have is that when we open the Weija Dam, we have to travel long distances to open the estuary for the water to pass,” he said.

Mr. Lamptey noted that these delays and access difficulties often lead to confrontations with nearby residents.

“When it happens like that, residents around the area don’t allow us to operate. Some believe the water from the dam carries fish, so when the estuary is opened, the fish are washed away. This creates confrontations between us and the residents,” he explained.

He believes a permanent engineered estuary system would eliminate the need for manual intervention each time the dam is opened.

“But if we get a permanent estuary like what has been done at Korle Lagoon—such that it flows directly into the sea—then we won’t have to go and look for excavators and travel long distances every time,” he added.

The MCE further revealed that the assembly is exploring long-term energy solutions linked to the water system.

“In future, we are thinking of engaging engineers to explore the possibility of a small hydro plant to generate electricity for nearby communities. We are hoping to continue discussions on how feasible it will be,” he said.

The proposals form part of broader efforts by the assembly to prevent flooding during dam spillages and better protect water bodies in the municipality.