Old Fadama’s Recreational Dreams Shattered by Chemical Contamination – Dr. Benedict Mensah Arkhurst
Dr. Benedict Mensah Arkhurst, Deputy Director of the Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority (LUSPA), disclosed that Old Fadama is no longer suitable for recreational purposes due to severe soil contamination from chemical exposure. This shocking revelation comes after recent tests conducted by LUSPA confirming the soil’s unsuitability for its intended purpose. This was announced on Dominion TV’s morning show, Wake Up Africa with Korku Lumor and Precious Bia-Dela on Monday, March, 10.
Initially designated for recreational use in the 1985 as part of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s vision, Old Fadama’s plans for a football field and other recreational areas were never implemented. Instead, the area has been overrun by squatters. Dr. Arkhurst attributed the area’s beauty to its topography and soil nature, but lamented the failure to implement the original plan.
LUSPA’s engagement with the erstwhile administration to reclaim the land was thwarted by extensive testing, which revealed that chemicals and other contaminants had infiltrated the soil. Despite this setback, the Spatial Planning Authority is exploring alternative solutions to ensure sustainable use of the area.
This development raises concerns about the impact of urbanization and industrial activities on environmental health. As Ghana’s population continues to grow, with Accra’s population projected to reach 5.5 million by the end of 2025, sustainable urban planning and environmental protection become increasingly crucial.
LUSPA’s efforts to promote sustainable development and mitigate the effects of chemical contamination in Old Fadama are commendable. However, more needs to be done to address the systemic issues underlying environmental degradation in Ghana’s urban areas.
The Globalization and World Cities Research Network has designated Accra as a global city with growing international influence and connectedness. However, this growth comes with a price. The influx of people moving to Accra has resulted in environmental issues such as floods, fires, and increased land and air pollution.
According to recent statistics, Accra experiences an average of 15 flood events per year, resulting in significant economic losses and displacement of residents. The city’s air pollution levels have also increased by 20% over the past five years, exacerbating respiratory problems and other health issues.
However, the costs of mitigating these environmental problems are substantial, diverting resources away from other critical areas such as education and healthcare.
As Accra continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that policymakers and stakeholders prioritize sustainable urban planning and development. This includes investing in green infrastructure, improving waste management systems, and promoting eco-friendly practices among residents and businesses.
In the coming days, Dominion TV’s morning show, Wake Up Africa and LUSPA will be rolling out a special program in adopting a proactive and sustainable approach to urbanization, where Accra can minimize the negative impacts of growth and create a healthier, more habitable environment for its residents.
Wake Up Africa morning show on Dominion TV is currently Ghana’s Premier Morning Television Program. It’s the flagship show and hosted by the charismatic duo Korku Lumor and Precious Bia Dela. The Wake-Up Africa morning show is revolutionizing how Ghanaians and Africans start their day.
Source: Sharon Frimpomaa Opoku
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