Govt asked to take measures to halt Ada sea erosion

Ada, Sept. 20, GNA - Mr Samuel Johnfia, Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Works and Housing, has called on the Government to take urgent steps to tackle the Ada sea erosion problem. He told the Ghana News Agency in an interview that the rate of erosion along the coastline was very serious, hence the need for immediate action before more lands are lost to displace the people and impose economic hardship on them.

Mr Johnfia made the call when members of the Committee visited Ada to acquaint themselves with the problem, after numerous complaints from the people.

"A lot of people have been displaced, and this has affected economic activities in the Ada-Foah area and there was the need for remedial measures to be taken until funds are sourced for the main sea defence project," he said.

He stressed: "Most inhabitants along the coastline complain about the fast rate of erosion which is causing calamity." The Committee Chairman said most families claimed they have lost their homes and businesses to the sea and many more are under threat including the District Assembly building, which is just about 20 metres away from the sea.

Mr Hubert Osei-Wusuansa, Consultant Engineer with the Hydrology Department of the Ministry of Works and Housing told the committee that the magnitude of the erosion could be compared to that of Keta. He attributed the fast erosion to the intense waves and angle of attack on the shores, which made it impossible for the old breakwater constructed some years ago to be submerged.

"The construction of the Akosombo Dam also affected the flow of sediments into the sea," adding that the construction of Tema harbour and redevelopment of the Lome Port have also contributed to the problem.

Mr Osei-Wusuansa said the type of sea defence structure built at Keta would be suitable for Ada despite the high cost involved.