PAG Sympathizes With Flood Victims, Demands Urgent Long-Term Solutions
The Progressive Alliance for Ghana (PAG) has extended condolences to families hit by Monday’s devastating floods while urging government to shift from reactive responses to proactive, long-term flood prevention.
In a press statement released Tuesday, PAG described the disaster that swept through Accra and other cities as “yet another painful reminder that flooding has become a recurring national tragedy rather than an isolated natural disaster.”
Monday morning’s hours-long downpour submerged homes and businesses, disrupted transportation, destroyed public infrastructure, and claimed lives across Greater Accra. Thousands have been displaced, with the Interior Minister confirming 12 deaths and over 38,800 people affected.
“You Are Not Alone”
“The Progressive Alliance for Ghana stands firmly with all those affected during this difficult and heartbreaking time,” the statement read. “We share in your grief and pain, and assure every bereaved family, displaced resident, and victim who has suffered losses that you are not alone. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as the nation mourns this tragic disaster.”
PAG pointed to “inadequate drainage systems, poor urban planning, indiscriminate waste disposal, weak enforcement of building regulations, and the unchecked occupation of waterways” as key drivers of Ghana’s annual flood crisis.
“Year after year, communities across Ghana are forced to endure avoidable suffering,” said Donald Brown Dzameshie, Communication Director for PAG.
Commends Responders, Calls for Prevention
The Alliance commended the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Armed Forces, health workers, volunteers, and individuals working to rescue victims and provide relief.
But PAG stressed that emergency response alone is not enough. “While emergency response is necessary, PAG believes the country must move beyond reacting to disasters after they occur.”
The group called on government to urgently implement six key measures:
1. Accelerate construction and rehabilitation of drainage systems in flood-prone communities
2. Intensify desilting of gutters and waterways before and during the rainy season
3. Strictly enforce building regulations to stop developments on waterways and flood-prone lands
4. Strengthen waste management and enforce sanitation laws to prevent drains from choking with refuse
5. Invest in modern flood forecasting, early warning systems, and public education on disaster preparedness
6. Work closely with MMDAs to identify and address flood-prone areas before disasters occur
“Cannot Be Accepted as Normal”
“The recurring loss of lives and destruction of property cannot continue to be accepted as normal,” PAG stated. “Every Ghanaian deserves to live in a safe environment where heavy rainfall does not result in tragedy.”
The Alliance urged citizens to cooperate with emergency authorities, heed safety directives, avoid flooded roads and waterways, and remain vigilant as rains persist.
“Once again, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by this disaster. The Progressive Alliance for Ghana stands in solidarity with every victim and remains committed to advocating for policies that will protect lives, property, and the future of our nation,” Dzameshie added.
The statement ended with PAG’s motto: Forward together.
