Risk Factors, Effects and Management of Flood in the Ashaimann Municipality of the Greater Accra Region

Abstract

Flooding is a perennial problem in most parts of Accra for many years resulting in loss of lives and properties. Ashaiman is one of such areas within the Metropolis that record pockets of flood annually. Some flood prone areas in Ghana such as the Odo Basin have received major flood management interventions from the Government to mitigate the floods and its effects; others are yet to receive the required attention. This research sought to analyse the risk factors for flooding, its effect and the possible management of flood within the Ashaiman Municipality in order to attract the necessary intervention. A Remote Sensing Images, Ariel view and rainfall pattern analysis of the flood prone areas of the municipality was conducted. A survey among the residents of the Ashaiman municipality was also conducted to capture their views on flooding. Face to face interviews were conducted with key Officials that are involved with flood and flood management to identify the main risk factors of flooding, effects and the flood control measures in the Municipality. The research found that the Ashaiman Municipality is a low land with a high-water table. It is also a natural waterway therefore prone to flooding. Anthropological activities such as massive development and haphazard settlement have contributed and exacerbated the issue of flooding in the area. Some effects of flood within the Ashaiman Municipality include; increased tropical diseases such as malaria, typhoid and in extreme cases diarrhoeal diseases during flood seasons. Drowning, deaths and loss of physical properties are also recorded during flooding. As control measures, research it is recommended that structural and non-structural interventions to mitigate the flood and its effects, the Drains need regular maintenance and management by the Hydrological Services Department in conjunction with the Municipality to de-silt and dredge the major drains.