Harvest rain, grow grass to stop Accra floods

The Greater Accra Region has become known for persistent flooding for over three decades with many wondering which interventions could best address the challenge.

Even though people have pointed to proper sanitation and restoration of wetlands across the Greater Accra Region as sustainable solutions to the flooding situation, there are a lot more practical ways of dealing with flooding in the capital city.

This article proposes a series of measures aimed at addressing the persistent flooding that affects parts of Accra during the rainy season.

Introduction of a national policy on rainwater harvesting by the government.

The government could urge households in the capital to harvest rainwater for domestic use and watering of backyard gardens.

The capital is naturally a flood-prone area, and many of its large streams have gradually been converted into drains and gutters, reducing their capacity to channel stormwater effectively.

The runoff from the Akuapem Range eventually flows into Accra, placing enormous pressure on the city's drainage infrastructure.

The rainwater falling directly from roofs also gathers significant force, picking up dust and other sediments before carrying them into drains, where they accumulate and reduce the drains' capacity. So, the government should explore water harvesting to reduce the volumes of rainwater falling to the ground.

Accra is already experiencing water shortages. Harvesting rainwater will not only reduce the amount of runoff entering drains but will also provide an alternative source of water for households.

Planting of green grass at frontages, especially along drains

It is time for the government to make it compulsory for property owners to plant green grass along the sides of drainage systems.

Vegetation would help trap soil and sediments before they are washed into drains during heavy rainfall.

Many drains become choked with sand not because residents deliberately dump soil into them, but because stormwater erodes loose earth and transports it into the drainage channels.

If grass is planted around drains, it will reduce soil erosion and prevent large amounts of sand from being washed into the drainage systems.

This will help keep the drains clear and improve the flow of water during heavy rains.

Though very modest, the implementation of these measures would significantly reduce the recurring floods that continue to affect lives and property in Accra, while also contributing to improved water conservation and environmental management.

Written by Justice Yeboah

(President of the Progressive Youth Federation Ghana)