Weija Dam: GWL warns residents to evacuate as spillage begins

The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has commenced a controlled spillage of the Weija Dam to manage rising water levels triggered by the ongoing rainy season.

According to a statement from GWCL’s Head of Communications, Stanley Martey, the dam’s water level has reached 45 feet—just two feet below its maximum safe limit of 47 feet.

To prevent overflow and protect the dam’s structural integrity, the company has opened two of the dam’s gates for a minimal, precautionary spillage.

Residents living downstream have been advised to evacuate immediately as a safety precaution. At-risk communities include Tetegu, Oblogo, Pambros Salt, Lower McCarthy Hill, Lower Weija, Bojo Beach, Adakope, and surrounding areas.

GWCL has alerted all relevant stakeholders, including the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), National Security, traditional authorities, and property owners in the affected zones.

The Ga West Municipal Assembly has also been instructed to desilt the estuary and clear refuse along the riverbanks to facilitate smooth water flow into the sea.

“The Management of GWL is by this release sounding a word of caution to inhabitants downstream to evacuate the area to forestall any eventuality,” the statement said.

“Additionally, the Ga West Municipal Assembly has been advised to desilt the estuary to facilitate the smooth flow of excess water into the sea and to clear accumulated refuse along the course of the river.”

GWL further stressed the importance of following guidance from disaster management authorities: “Residents downstream must heed all warnings from NADMO and other agencies mandated to manage disasters.”

GWL has assured the public that water levels are being closely monitored on an hourly basis and pledged to keep the public informed of any developments.