New Juaben South Municipal Chief Executive, Ransford Owusu Boakye, has announced plans to remove unauthorized concrete slabs built by shop owners over drainage systems in Koforidua. These structures, he said, are obstructing water flow and complicating routine maintenance.
Speaking during the National Sanitation Day exercise on Saturday, October 4, Mr. Owusu Boakye revealed that many traders have illegally constructed permanent covers over drains, making desilting efforts nearly impossible. He intends to meet with municipal engineers to assess the extent of the problem and determine which structures must be demolished.
“What we’ve noticed is that some shop owners have built fixed concrete slabs over drains, blocking the free flow of water. I’ll sit with the technical team to evaluate the situation—where demolition is necessary, we’ll proceed,” he stated.
The sanitation exercise, held at the flood-prone Prince Boateng Roundabout, exposed widespread unauthorized construction and improper waste disposal. Residents were seen dumping food waste and litter into gutters, further aggravating drainage congestion.
The MCE emphasized the need for a large storm drain to manage runoff from the Obuotabiri mountains and permanently resolve flooding in the area, which connects key landmarks including the Eastern Regional Hospital, New Juaben Manhene Palace, and major lorry terminals.
Author: Jasmine Adjei
Development journalist
