Sweet City Restaurant was once a booming hospitality centre, but is now out of business as its environment became death trap. Photo David Andoh
After years of public outcry, the New Bortianor community in the Ga South Municipality of the Greater Accra Region continues to face a severe environmental crisis due to devastating soil erosion.
Residents say they are now fed up with their near-helpless state in the community, with some of them having relocated.
The community, once renowned for its picturesque landscape and thriving ecosystem, is now struggling to cope with the impact of soil erosion, leaving many residents concerned about their future.
The soil erosion in Bortianor has reached alarming proportions, with a number of principal streets washed away by surface runoff. The erosion has not only destroyed homes and infrastructure but also threatened the livelihoods of many residents who depend on domestic businesses.
A couple of shops along some of the principal streets have collapsed as a result of the devastating erosion.
The community’s scenic coastline, which was once a source of pride, is now a reminder of the devastating impact of climate change.
While the exact causes of the soil erosion in Bortianor are complex and multifaceted, many residents point to climate change, diversion of waters for the construction of new houses , and poor land management practices as contributing factors.
The soil erosion in Bortianor has had a significant impact on the community, both economically and socially. Many residents have lost their homes, livelihoods, and sense of security. The erosion has also disrupted social services, including education and healthcare, and has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear.
The situation in Bortianor requires urgent attention and action. Residents are appealing to President John Dramani Mahama as a matter of urgency to intervene and NGOs, and other stakeholders to work together to provide support and solutions to the community.
This includes implementing sustainable drainage systems, providing alternative engineering protection infrastructure.
Madam Rosemary Owusu, Manager of Mina Koufi Chemicals Shop, which has been severely affected, blamed some residents for diverting the waterways without checking the dangers they pose to the community.
She said for the past 3 years she and other residents have been pleading with officials of the previous administration, who they kept promising them till they left power.
Michael Eshun, a student, complained bitterly about the situation since the situation renders part of the community impassable anytime it rains.
Nana Agyekum, a landlord lord, disclosed that there was a private university operating in the community, but the intensity of the problem compelled the authority to relocate.
He, however, condemned some of his fellow landlords for their failure to come together to support municipal authority to solve their problem for them.
Yaw Danso, a taxi driver who plies from West Hills to Adanseman suburb, said the situation affects his sales as his car always breaks down due to the situation, making him spend a large chunk of his daily sales to repair his car.
The devastating soil erosion in Bortianor is a wake-up call for all stakeholders to take action to protect our environment and communities. We must work together to address the root causes of soil erosion and provide support to affected communities. Only through collective action can we mitigate the impact of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Bortianor is home to the popular West Hills Mall, the manufacturing group Zonda International, and the Finney Fertility Hospital. Where these businesses sit is unaffected by the climate devastation, though. Ordinarily, it is a preferred choice for prospective middle and upper-class citizens, largely as a result of the serene weather and the greenery. The undulating topography adds its own beauty.
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