The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC), chaired by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has declared a state of heightened operational readiness across the region as authorities intensify efforts to prevent flooding and ensure security during the upcoming Homowo festivities.

The decision follows an emergency high-level assessment of flood-prone areas and emerging security concerns linked to the rainy season and traditional celebrations.

According to the Regional Coordinating Council, the strategy is designed to mitigate flood risks, safeguard lives and property, and maintain public order during the annual Homowo festival.

Based on intelligence and terrain assessments conducted with support from the National Investigation Bureau (NIB), several communities have been designated as critical flood-risk zones requiring immediate intervention.

Areas identified as critical risk corridors include Odawna Sahara and Adabraka Official Town within the Korle Klottey Municipality.

Other high-risk flashpoints include Alajo Central, D.K. Poison, Polo Park, Berlin Bridge, and the Downside Area in Ayawaso North and Ayawaso East.

Additional vulnerable locations include Jelil Estate Junction, Baba Yara Area, and Akorli Down in Madina, as well as Osu Alata, Osu Doku, and the Abelemkpe Methodist Church area.

Authorities have also placed major drainage catchments in Weija-Gbawe, Ga West, and Ga East under heightened monitoring.

As part of measures to reduce flood risks, the Regional Minister has directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to intensify sanitation and drainage clearance operations.

Sanitation task forces have been instructed to immediately remove silt, debris, and waste materials obstructing major drains and waterways across the region.

The Regional Coordinating Council said the exercise is intended to improve water flow and reduce the likelihood of flooding during the peak rainy season.

REGSEC has also announced enhanced security arrangements for the upcoming Homowo celebrations.

According to the Council, security agencies will increase intelligence gathering, surveillance, and visibility patrols in traditional areas to prevent disturbances linked to chieftaincy disputes, land conflicts, and other potential security threats.

Joint operations involving the security services, emergency responders, and the Ghana National Fire Service have been planned to ensure effective crowd management, emergency response, and traffic control during the festivities.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has also identified safe locations for temporary shelter and evacuation should flooding threaten communities in high-risk areas.

Residents living within vulnerable flood zones have been urged to remain vigilant, follow official safety advisories, and cooperate with emergency response teams when necessary.

Speaking on the measures, Hon. Ocloo said the safety and well-being of residents remain the government's top priority.

She assured the public that the Regional Coordinating Council, security agencies, NADMO, and other stakeholders are fully mobilised to respond to emergencies and protect lives and property.

The Minister called on residents to support ongoing interventions by observing safety precautions, maintaining environmental cleanliness, and promptly reporting emergencies through the appropriate channels.

Authorities say the coordinated strategy will help strengthen disaster preparedness while ensuring that this year's Homowo celebrations are conducted peacefully and safely across the Greater Accra Region.