The Korle drains, a major drainage system in Accra, have been overwhelmed by heaps of refuse, sparking concerns among traders and residents over poor sanitation and the increasing risk of flooding.

Residents and traders in the area blame the situation on the indiscriminate disposal of waste by some aboboyaa riders, kayayei, and residents of Old Fadama. They say the practice has left portions of the drainage system heavily clogged. Adjei Mensah, a 70-year-old driver and executive of the Agbogbloshie Lorry Station, described the sanitation situation as alarming. He recalled how he was caught in severe flooding in the area during a recent downpour and said he survived only because some people came to his rescue.

The situation has created unsanitary conditions that have contributed to illnesses such as malaria and typhoid in the community. Some residents admitted that the absence of adequate refuse containers has forced many people to dump waste into the Korle drains. They claimed that although they occasionally caution others against the practice, they are often ignored, with offenders questioning whether they own the drains.

Paul Nii Oblie Laryea, Policy Advisor to the Accra Mayor, said the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is currently removing refuse that has accumulated on the streets as part of the ongoing clean-up exercise. He acknowledged that the Assembly is aware of the condition of the Korle drains and disclosed that plans are underway to desilt them to restore the free flow of water. Mr Laryea further revealed that the Assembly has begun distributing refuse containers in parts of Old Fadama and Agbogbloshie to improve waste collection and discourage indiscriminate dumping.

He urged residents and traders to make use of the containers instead of disposing of waste into drains and warned that anyone found dumping refuse into watercourses would face sanctions. Authorities continue to encourage the public to support sanitation efforts, stressing that proper waste disposal is essential to preventing floods and safeguarding public health.

The Korle drains have a long history dating back to the colonial era. The drains were initially constructed to prevent flooding in the area but have since become a major source of concern due to the increasing amount of waste dumped into them. Efforts to desilt the drains have been hampered by lack of funds and inadequate machinery.

In response to the sanitation crisis, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly has increased the number of waste management personnel and begun implementing stricter regulations on waste disposal. The public is urged to cooperate with the Assembly's efforts to restore the Korle drains to their original functionality.

### Key Facts

  • The Korle drains are a major drainage system in Accra.
  • Heaps of refuse have engulfed sections of the Korle drains.
  • Residents blame aboboyaa riders, kayayei, and residents of Old Fadama for the mess.
  • The Accra Metropolitan Assembly is currently removing refuse from the streets.
  • Plans are underway to desilt the Korle drains to restore the free flow of water.