The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has commenced minimal spillage of excess water from the Weija Dam due to rising water levels caused by the ongoing rainy season.
According to Stanley Martey, GWCL’s Communications Director, the water level of the dam has reached 44.4 feet, prompting the company to open two gates to allow controlled outflow. This measure is aimed at preventing the water level from exceeding 47 feet, which is the standard threshold for safe operations.
“We have already started at 44 feet with two gates opened when we announced to the general public,” Martey stated.
He explained that GWCL’s maximum operating level is 48 feet, but to protect the dam’s integrity, spillage is initiated at 44 feet to avoid potential collapse.
Martey warned that if inflows continue to rise, the spillage rate may increase.
“If we are not careful and the dam collapses, the repercussions will be more disastrous than what we have seen in times past,” he cautioned.
Residents living in buffer zones have been advised to evacuate, while authorities are urged to take precautionary measures to prevent serious flooding.
The controlled spillage is expected to affect communities downstream, with possible flooding in low-lying areas. GWCL has assured the public that the process is being monitored closely to minimize disruptions.
As the rainy season continues, GWCL will adjust the spillage rate based on incoming water volume to ensure the safety of the dam and surrounding communities.
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