The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has given residents and businesses occupying the buffer zone of the Kpeshie Lagoon at Laboma Beach 21 days to vacate the area ahead of a planned demolition exercise.
The directive affects structures within the Laboma enclave in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, including the popular lounge Pink Flamingo, which authorities say was built within a protected buffer zone.
According to REGSEC, the area has suffered significant siltation and increased unauthorised development, factors that have contributed to worsening flooding in parts of Accra.
The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, who led an inspection of the site, said the move forms part of government’s broader efforts to protect waterways, restore wetlands and address flooding challenges across the region.
She warned that occupants who fail to comply with the 21-day notice will be removed forcibly to allow authorities to restore the integrity of the buffer zone.
The Minister said some developers had earlier been cautioned against continuing construction activities in the area but ignored the warnings and proceeded with their projects.
“Some of the buildings here, when they were at their early stage, we asked the owners not to continue, but they still went ahead. People sometimes just push us and call you all kinds of names. At the end of the day, I am not even sure the encroachers even have permits,” she said.
She added that continued encroachment on waterways and wetlands could worsen flooding risks and undermine efforts to improve drainage systems in Accra.
The planned demolition is part of ongoing measures by authorities to reclaim waterways, remove unauthorised structures and strengthen flood resilience in flood-prone communities across the Greater Accra Region.
CREDIT: NANA ACHIAA ABOAGYE