By Daniel Akwasi Nuako
Enchi (WNR), July 16, GNA – Mr. Wilbert Petty Brentum, the Western North Regional Minister, has warned residents of the Aswin Municipality against dumping refuse and putting up structures along waterways, saying such practices were major contributors to flooding during the rainy season.
The Minister gave the warning when he led a two-day nationwide clean-up exercise in the Aowin Municipality.
The exercise was declared by President John Dramani Mahama in seven regions that were severely affected by recent floods, to prevent outbreaks of cholera and other diseases.
Participating in the exercise at Enchi, the Aowin Municipal capital, Mr. Brentum said although many communities in the municipality are located in low-lying areas and are naturally prone to flooding, the recent floods were largely caused by human activities.
These, he noted, include illegal mining, sand winning along riverbanks, indiscriminate felling of trees by chainsaw operators and other environmentally harmful practices.
He further stated that unauthorized construction along waterways and the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains and water bodies were major causes of floods whenever there was prolonged or heavy rainfall.
He therefore cautioned residents to desist from such acts.
“Cleanliness is next to godliness,” the Minister said, and called on all residents to actively participate in the clean-up exercise.
He stressed that a clean environment is essential for good health.
Dr. Stephen Ntow Morcher, the Municipal Chief Executive for Aowin, said the exercise was very dear to the heart of President Mahama and the Regional Minister.
He urged residents, especially the youth, to take part to ensure its success.
Dr. Morcher also pledged to desilt all clogged gutters and dredge major streams around Enchi township to help prevent future floods
For his part, Mr. Paul Ntsuga, the Western North Regional Environmental Health Officer, advised residents to avoid littering and to make proper use of dustbins placed at strategic locations.
The clean-up exercise was carried out in Enchi, Jensue, Nyankamam, Boinso, Achimfo, Omanpe, Kwawu, Kwame Elubo, Nsuo Akyire, Banaso, Ebbikwawkrom and Agyeikrom.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter Daniel Akwasi Nuako