Cambodia residents petition TWMA to demolish Amadia warehouse

The Cambodia Residents Association has formally petitioned the Tema West Municipal Assembly (TWMA) to demolish a warehouse owned by the Amadia Shopping Centre. The residents allege that the structure was constructed on a primary waterway, which has severely obstructed the natural flow of stormwater. This obstruction is cited as the primary cause of recurrent and devastating flooding within the Cambodia community, threatening both property and the livelihoods of local inhabitants.

Adib Saani, the convenor of the association, presented the petition to the assembly, detailing how the construction process allegedly involved filling a major drainage channel. According to the residents, this modification to the local landscape has left the area vulnerable during the rainy season, as water that previously bypassed the community is now diverted into residential and commercial spaces. The association maintains that the removal of the warehouse is the only viable solution to restore the integrity of the drainage system and protect the neighborhood from further environmental hazards.

In response to the petition, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tema West, Ludwig Teye Totimeh, acknowledged the gravity of the residents' concerns. He assured the association that the assembly would take steps to investigate the claims and evaluate the drainage infrastructure. Specifically, the MCE promised to form a joint team to assess the drainage and the general condition of the roads in the affected area. This team is expected to determine the extent of any encroachment on the waterway and assess the warehouse's impact on local commerce and safety.

The situation highlights ongoing tensions between commercial development and environmental safety within the Tema West municipality. As the community awaits the findings of the joint evaluation team, the residents have expressed hope that the assembly will prioritize public safety and proper urban planning. The outcome of this petition is expected to address the immediate flooding concerns and clarify the enforcement of building regulations regarding designated waterways in the zone.