By Dorothy Frances Ward, GNA
Kumasi July 09, GNA – Dr. Owusu Fordjour Aidoo, Lecturer at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), has called on the government to urgently introduce a much tougher punishment for indiscriminate dumping of refuse.
This measure, according to him, could help reduce the persistent flooding experienced in many parts of the country.
Dr. Aidoo, who was speaking to Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Kumasi, expressed concern that plastic waste continued to block drains, streams and waterways, making it difficult for rainwater to flow freely during heavy downpours.
“Weather experts have indicated that the rain has not stopped and more heavy rain is coming.
It is therefore important for the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, as well as traditional leaders to help institute stringent measures to punish those who dump refuse indiscriminately.
He pointed out that, despite sanitation laws, many people continued to dispose of refuse in drains, open spaces and water bodies without regard for the consequences.
He stressed that stricter enforcement of these laws was necessary to discourage such irresponsible behaviour.
According to him, penalties, including heavier fines, community service and, where necessary, prosecution of offenders could help a great deal.
They argue that stronger sanctions would serve as a deterrent and encourage greater compliance with environmental regulations.
Dr. Aidoo indicated that plastic waste continued to be one of the biggest environmental challenges because it did not decompose easily.
Instead, it accumulated in drainage systems, reducing their capacity to carry storm water and increasing the likelihood of flooding during the rainy season.
He said the public needed to understand the environmental, economic, and health consequences of indiscriminate waste disposal and the importance of adopting responsible sanitation practices.
Intensified education on keeping the environment clean must be carried out by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).
He further urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to provide adequate waste bins in communities, markets, transport terminals, and other public places.
He said regular collection of refuse and routine de-silting of drains would help improve sanitation and minimise flood risks.
Recycling initiatives must also be established in the country to reduce the volume of plastic waste entering the environment.
He also called for stronger community participation in sanitation exercises and communal labour including regular clean-up campaigns and neighbourhood monitoring.
“We must be each other’s keeper”, he said
Active involvement of citizens would complement government efforts and help maintain cleaner surroundings and call for collective national effort to address the situation.
GNA
Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Writer: Frances Dorothy Ward