Burkinaba authorities confirm spillage on Friday

Accra, Aug. 17, GNA - The National Secretariat of National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) on Tuesday said the Burkinabe authorities had confirmed that spillage of the Bagre and Compienga Dams would commence on the morning of Friday, August 20.

A statement issued in Accra and signed by Mr. Kofi Portuphy, National Co-ordinator, said the spillage had become necessary because the waters of the two dams had now reached their maximum operating levels due to continuous heavy downpour in the country.

It said communities living in the catchment areas of the White and Black Volta in Upper East and West and Northern Regions were therefore advised to take precautionary measures to ensure security of lives and property in the event of any flooding.

The statement said it was anticipated that the likely impact of flooding in the three Regions would affect 350 communities and displace 288,528 people.

It said meanwhile, NADMO, management of Volta River Authority (VRA) and District Assemblies personnel were on the ground in all the vulnerable communities to offer assistance if the spillage cause any massive flood.

The Rapid Response Team of NADMO and the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces are being moved up North to be based in Walewale to assist in rescue operations.

"We entreat affected communities not to panic", the statement added.