Torrential rains in the North East Gonja District of the Savannah Region have precipitated a catastrophic situation, leaving 246 residents homeless and destroying 93 houses. This devastating flood, triggered by continuous rainfall beginning on Wednesday, has far-reaching consequences extending beyond immediate shelter needs, impacting food supplies, agricultural production, and livestock. The region has experienced a significant disruption to life, with the crucial Lantung Park, Kedingi, and Kanankula areas cut off from surrounding communities due to a washed-away feeder road. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has documented the extent of the damage and is transmitting situation reports to its head office. NADMO’s Savannah Regional Director, Mahama Zakaria, led an assessment of the affected areas, acknowledging the immense scale of the crisis and stating that relief items could reach displaced residents within 48 hours. Mr. Zakaria emphasized the immediate priority is to assess the damage and provide crucial support to those displaced by the floods. For residents, the losses are far beyond mere shelter; Luckman Musah, a resident, lost bags of soybeans, maize, and rice, along with his livestock, to the floods. He expressed deep concern, stating that the loss of homes, food, and livelihood represents a significant hardship. The washed-out feeder road has severely impacted trade, hindering the movement of goods and creating logistical challenges for businesses and livelihoods. A business operator, Eric, highlighted the devastating effect on his operations, noting that the damaged road has made it impossible for customers and traders to access communities and markets. Food and other essential goods are also at risk, as the disruption to transportation routes threatens to affect the entire supply chain. According to the District Chief Executive for North East Gonja, Abdul Mumin Ewuntomah, residents from around Bimbila, who rely on the road to access the local market, have also been cut off. He stressed the importance of the feeder road, stating that it is vital for connecting several communities to the market and supports economic activities. Mr. Ewuntomah appealed to the National Security, the Minister of Roads and Highways, and the Department of Feeder Roads to treat the damage to the road as an emergency. Meanwhile, district officials have raised concerns about access to healthcare for residents in affected communities, emphasizing the urgent need for support and assistance.
This situation underscores the vulnerability of the region to severe weather events and the critical importance of robust infrastructure maintenance. The extent of the damage and the challenges facing affected communities are prompting calls for a comprehensive response and long-term recovery efforts.
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Source: Adom Online
