By Yussif Ibrahim
Kumasi, June 17, GNA – Residents and business operators along the Santasi-Ahenema Kokoben road have appealed to the government and relevant authorities to urgently construct a major storm drainage system to address recurring flooding that continues to endanger lives and damage property in the area.
The appeal follows recent heavy rains that inundated sections of the road and adjoining communities, causing destruction to homes, businesses and infrastructure.
Residents attributed the persistent flooding to large volumes of stormwater flowing from upstream areas, compounded by choked drains and indiscriminate waste disposal.
The concerns were raised during a visit by Mrs. Grace Agyemang Asamoah, District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Kwanwoma, to assess the situation.
Mr. Michael Adubofour, Chief Executive Officer of Midland Industries Ghana Limited, said the flooding challenge had become a major concern for residents and businesses operating along the corridor.
He recalled that a major flooding incident in 2022 resulted in extensive destruction after a retaining wall constructed upstream obstructed the natural flow of water and diverted large volumes of stormwater onto the road and nearby communities.
According to him, the disaster reportedly claimed about five lives, swept away vehicles and caused significant damage to properties.
Mr. Adubofour said the incident prompted repeated calls for the construction of a larger storm drain capable of conveying excess water safely across the road to downstream areas.
He noted that the Santasi-Ahenema Kokoben road, which serves as a boundary between the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and the Atwima Kwanwoma District Assembly, was gradually deteriorating due to annual flooding and erosion.
Mr. Adubofour said engagements with officials of the Works and Housing sector after the 2022 floods had resulted in assurances that an additional bridge and a major storm drainage system would be constructed to address the problem.
However, he said no substantial intervention had been undertaken, leaving residents and businesses exposed to the risk of flooding during every rainy season.
He also expressed concern over the collapse of retaining walls along sections of the riverbanks, leading to the loss of adjoining lands and raising fears of further infrastructure damage.
Residents who interacted with the DCE called for immediate action to prevent future disasters and protect lives, businesses and investments in the area.
Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah assured residents that the issue would receive the necessary attention.
She said she would engage the Mayor of Kumasi, relevant state agencies and Kofi Job Construction Limited, the contractor handling the ongoing road project, to assess the situation and identify an appropriate engineering solution.
The DCE stressed the need for collaboration among stakeholders, noting that the affected area falls within the jurisdiction of both the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and the Atwima Kwanwoma District Assembly.
She urged residents and road users to exercise caution during periods of heavy rainfall while efforts were made to address the challenge.
GNA
Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Yussif Ibrahim
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