Prez Mahama warns against collusion between private businesses and chiefs in violating planning regulations
His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern caution to chiefs and business men who put up buildings along water retention areas.
According to him, the illegal construction of infrastructure along water ways is a major contributor to flooding.
“Finally, I must address a deeply troubling issue. The illegal construction of buildings in waterways causing flooding and extensive destruction of property. As we know, the rains are about to start, and already we can see flooding because people have built and blocked the rivers and so the rivers have no where to back up. This reckless disregard for planning regulations and environmental safety, is a major contributor to our devastating floods that continue to plague our communities.
“I am ware of instances where private businesses colluding with some chiefs are turning water retention areas, ramseyer sites into built up zones. Let me be clear, this must stop. Those structures will be pulled down. We will not allow a few selfish individuals to endager the lives and livelihoods of countless others” he warned.
Delivering a speech to climax the Eid-ul- Fitr celebration held at the Black Star Square, he called for a collective action to build a better Ghana.
He also advised drivers to exercise caution and avoid reckless driving, emphasizing its consequences.
