The Volta River Authority (VRA) has revealed that it conducted simulation exercises in collaboration with the affected communities prior to the commencement of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
VRA, entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining the world’s largest man-made lake and ensuring the integrity of one of the most potent dams, plays a crucial role in securing Ghana’s electricity needs and supporting the communities within its vicinity. Controlled spills are a vital aspect of safeguarding the integrity of hydroelectric dams worldwide, and on certain occasions, they can result in flooding if the actual rainfall patterns significantly deviate from expectations.
In order to protect lives and livelihoods, VRA consistently engages in community interactions, training, and support systems for potential flood situations. Over the past 13 years, VRA has maintained an ongoing dialogue with communities and key stakeholders regarding emergency response protocols. This year was no exception, as VRA conducted workshops on Emergency Preparedness in various communities.
These workshops emphasized the probable impacts of a dam break or planned spill and instructed individuals on the actions they should take when notified of such an event. Before making the decision to conduct the spill, VRA executed a simulation exercise called “Exercise Da Wo Ho So 2023” in May 2023. The goal was to ensure that all relevant stakeholders were well-prepared for flood-related events, testing the effectiveness of emergency response procedures and the capabilities of concerned parties. The insights gained from this exercise were used to enhance response readiness.
Recognizing the significance of these simulations, the Chief Director of the Ministry of the Interior, Mrs. Adelaide Anno-Kumi, and a delegation from the US Embassy, North Dakota National Guards, were invited to provide technical support and validate the Emergency Preparedness Plan.
Other key stakeholders who played diverse roles in the emergency simulation exercise included the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Ghana Police Service, Ghana Navy, Armed Forces, Ambulance Service, Fire Service, Planning Officers, District Chief Executives such as Hon. Divine Osborne Fenu and Hon. Sarah Pobee, and several traditional leaders.
The simulation exercise was conducted, concurrently at the three (3) District Assemblies namely Asuogyaman, Ada East and North Tongu while complementary simulations took place in the six remaining districts. The main objective was to “Test response to (excessive) spillage of 5,000 to 10,000 m3/s of water from the Akosombo dam resulting in extensive flooding of downstream districts.”
A dry run was conducted from the established National and District Emergency Operation Centers (EOCs) to assess the emergency communication channels. Vital information about the exercise was communicated to the pertinent Relief Agency personnel.
Community members were trained on home evacuation procedures, as well as basic first aid and safety responses for early warning and notifications. They collaborated with relief agency personnel to understand the search and rescue process for individuals trapped in flooded areas during a potential spillage event.
Simulations included the evacuation of trapped individuals to designated safe havens from communities at higher risk of flooding. Mepe, identified as a high-exposure community, had an EOC set up within it, with the District Chief Executive, Hon. Divine Osborne Fenu, leading the simulation exercise. Relief Agency personnel explained all communication and evacuation protocols to Mepe’s residents.
Realistic simulations covered voluntary evacuations, first aid, search and rescue activities, among others. Selected members of the Mepe community participated, while other residents observed and posed questions.
As part of its Emergency Preparedness Plan, VRA allocated funds to support the purchase of relief items by NADMO, ensuring financial support for immediate evacuation and relief efforts in flood scenarios.
The controlled spilling from the Akosombo dam has been incrementally carried out since September 15, 2023, starting from 20,000 cubic feet per second and currently at 180,000 cubic feet per second. This increase was necessary due to significant changes in the rainfall pattern, filling the dam to critical levels.
The Akosombo dam’s geographical footprint represents approximately 3% of the country’s total land area, more than twice the size of the Greater Accra Region. The increased spilling was vital to prevent dam breakage and catastrophic floods.
As the controlled spill continues, VRA is committed to aiding the affected communities. In addition to funds allocated to NADMO, they have supplied essential relief items, including rice, canned food, legumes, cereals, nuts, provisions, oil, sachet water, and medical supplies to target various diseases. Distribution of these items to designated safe havens is ongoing, with Sogakope serving as the Medical Supply Distribution Depot.
VRA, in collaboration with NADMO, is providing potable water to affected communities in tankers and is in the process of restoring the water supply system in Aveyime in the North Tongu District.
VRA remains dedicated to providing the necessary support to the affected communities, vowing not to leave anyone behind.