The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has clarified that its demolition exercises are not carried out with malicious intent but are aimed at protecting lives, communities, and the nation from preventable disasters.
According to the Director of Inspectorate at NADMO, Mr. Amo Yartey, such actions are taken as a last resort to avert dangers, especially in disaster-prone areas.
Speaking on the Si Wo Dan show on Accra-based CTV with host Afia Nkansah Asare, Mr. Yartey stressed that many of the affected structures are located in water-logged areas and waterways, which pose serious risks during heavy rains.
He cautioned the public to be extremely careful when purchasing land for building, noting that failure to properly assess land conditions often leads to future disasters.
Mr. Yartey urged prospective homeowners to conduct thorough research before acquiring land.
He advised individuals to visit their local Assemblies to make enquiries and obtain the necessary permits, which include professional guidance on whether a piece of land is suitable for construction.
According to him, these checks are critical in preventing avoidable losses.
The NADMO official further emphasised the importance of engaging qualified engineers in building projects.
He noted that many people avoid professional services due to cost concerns, opting instead for unqualified individuals.
This practice, he warned, often results in structurally unsafe buildings that eventually become a threat to occupants and surrounding communities.
Mr. Yartey explained that demolitions usually occur when buildings pose an imminent danger, making intervention unavoidable.
“These actions are to save communities, protect residents, and safeguard Ghana from dangerous disasters,” he stated, appealing to the public to prioritise safety over shortcuts in construction decisions.
Source: Classfmonline.com/Afia Nkansah Asare
NADMO demolitions aimed at saving lives, not punishment – Amo Yartey
