The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), has expressed grievous concerns about the rapid development of wetlands in the Bolgatanga Municipality.
Wetlands are crucial ecosystems characterised by a unique blend of water, soil, and diverse vegetation. They play a vital role in maintaining the health of our planet and supporting a wide array of plant and animal species. Wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing and storing excess rainfall and reducing the risk of flooding in surrounding areas. They also serve as filters, purifying water by trapping sediments and pollutants. Furthermore, wetlands provide essential habitats for migratory birds, fish, amphibians, and countless other species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of our planet.
Despite their ecological importance, wetlands face numerous threats as seen in Bolgatanga, Upper East Regional Capital.
When the Bolgatanga Municipal Director of NADMO spoke to Mark Smith on A1 Radio’s Day Break Upper East Show, he mentioned that areas in the municipality that were not prone to floods have now become high-risk areas.
“On our flood maps for Bolgatanga, we used to have areas like Sawaba, Pobaga, Damweo towards Kungbagre [being flood prone areas]. But now, because of urbanisation, areas that were earmarked as wetlands and open spaces are now being developed for residential purposes. Some of these activities block runoff water causing floods. We now have flooding occurring in areas where flooding didn’t occur. For example, we now have Tindonsoe, which is between Bukere and Soe. Currently we have an issue we are dealing with as an organisation. That area was designated as an open space or a wetland. Now, the whole area has been turned to a residential area.”
Mr. Adombire-Naba was also worried about some residential development springing up very close to the Kulaa river. He explained that when attempts are made by NADMO and other relevant organisations to stop such development, their efforts are often hampered by persons in high places.
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Ghana
