BY Daniel Bampoe
A heavy downpour on Friday, September 12, 2025, left major sections of the Nsawam–Pokuase highway submerged, disrupting traffic flow and trapping hundreds of commuters for hours.
The rains, which lasted several hours, overwhelmed drainage systems along the busy stretch, forcing several motorists to park by the roadside as others risked driving through the floodwaters.
Passengers waiting at bus stops were also left stranded, many of them visibly frustrated by the recurring problem.
Residents and road users attributed the flooding to poor drainage infrastructure and unchecked human activities along waterways.
They accused city authorities of neglect, pointing out that despite numerous appeals over the years, little has been done to address the underlying causes of the flooding.
This is not the first time the Nsawam–Pokuase stretch has been crippled by heavy rains. In previous rainy seasons, similar downpours have caused massive traffic jams and sometimes accidents, as vehicles either stall in the water or attempt dangerous manoeuvres.
The problem has been compounded by unregulated construction, silting of drains, and poor urban planning, which experts say continue to worsen Accra’s flood situation.
While no casualties were recorded in Friday’s incident, transport operators and residents fear the consequences could be dire if long-term solutions are not found.
Over the years, successive governments have pledged to invest in better drainage systems for Accra and its environs.
Notably, projects such as the Odawna storm drain improvement and other flood control initiatives have been launched, but their impact has been limited due to rapid urbanisation and inadequate enforcement of building regulations.
The Pokuase-Nsawam highway, which serves as a vital link between Accra and parts of the Eastern Region, is crucial for trade and daily commuting. Frequent flooding on the stretch not only disrupts movement but also poses economic and safety risks.
