The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has warned that the region will no longer be a sanctuary for indiscipline following recent disasters across the capital.
In a press release issued on June 4, the Minister expressed sadness over the tragic incidents that occurred in the region on June 3, including the collapse of a two-storey building at Adenta New Site in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality, a major fire outbreak in Accra’s Central Business District and widespread flooding in parts of the capital.
“Accra belongs to all of us. Together, we must build a city that is safe, orderly, environmentally responsible and fit for future generations. Accra will no longer be a sanctuary for indiscipline. The time for compliance, accountability and responsible citizenship is now,” the statement said.
In view of these developments, she announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening compliance with planning regulations, improving public safety and enhancing urban governance following recent disasters across the capital.
Among the measures is a renewed enforcement of planning, building and environmental regulations. Developers, property owners and land users have been reminded of their obligation to comply with existing laws, while enforcement agencies have been directed to intensify compliance monitoring and take firm action against violations.
The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) will also strengthen its oversight role through the Regional Spatial Planning Committee to improve development control at the district level.
The statement further announced plans to intensify sanitation enforcement measures aimed at eliminating indiscriminate dumping of waste and promoting responsible environmental practices across the region.
According to the Minister, maintaining a clean environment remains critical to reducing flood risks and protecting public health.
The statement also highlighted efforts to strengthen citizen reporting mechanisms and encourage public participation in identifying and reporting illegal developments and environmental violations.
According to the statement, the incidents underscore longstanding challenges facing the city, including unauthorised developments, indiscriminate waste disposal, encroachment on waterways, disregard for planning regulations and weak enforcement of existing laws.
The Minister noted that while members of the public bear some responsibility, lapses in oversight and enforcement within certain public institutions have also contributed to the situation.
“As Regional Minister, I am committed to ensuring that accountability, professionalism and strict adherence to the law become the hallmarks of governance within the Greater Accra Region,” the statement said.
The Minister called on residents, local authorities and other stakeholders to support efforts to build a safer, cleaner and more resilient Greater Accra.
The Minister extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and sympathised with those whose homes, businesses and livelihoods were affected.
