Engineer explains why any structural failure at Weija Dam could be disastrous

Production Manager for the ATMA Production Area at the Weija Water Treatment Plant operated by Ghana Water Limited, Dr Hadisu Alhassan, has cautioned against increasing human activity and development around the Weija Dam, stating that any collapse of parts of the dam could lead to a major disaster.

According to Dr Alhassan, the rapid encroachment around the dam and its treatment facility is becoming a serious threat to the safety and stability of the structure.

In an adomonline.com report on March 12, 2026, he cautioned that the huge volume of water held by the dam means that any structural failure could have catastrophic consequences for communities downstream.

“If the dam were to collapse, large sections of Accra could be washed away due to the amount of water it contains,” Dr Alhassan warned.

The concerns were raised during a working visit by the Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, who toured the facility to assess challenges affecting the dam and the water treatment plant.

During the inspection, officials from Ghana Water Limited took the minister and his team through the treatment plant and surrounding areas, pointing out several issues including growing encroachment, pressure on infrastructure, and operational challenges.

Sudden rise in Weija Dam water forces spillage today

Dr Alhassan explained that the increasing construction and human activities close to the dam could compromise safety measures put in place to protect the facility.

Adjei acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns and assured management of Ghana Water Limited that government would take steps to address the situation.

He said he would engage the Minister of Local Government to help tackle the growing problem of encroachment around the dam.

The minister also expressed satisfaction with the progress of ongoing repair works at the treatment plant, which are aimed at improving water supply and addressing shortages affecting parts of Accra.

The visit forms part of broader government efforts to protect the dam, safeguard surrounding communities, and strengthen water supply systems for residents of Accra and nearby areas.

MRA/VPO

Citizens speak on GoldBod Jewellery-Nana Aba Anamoah partnership