The Ministry of Energy has justified the controlled release of excess water from the Akosombo Dam, a move carried out by the Volta River Authority (VRA) to prevent potential dam failure.

Initiated from September 15 to October 30, the controlled spillage by the VRA led to substantial flooding in parts of the Volta and Greater Accra Regions, resulting in the displacement of numerous residents and extensive property damage.

In a report submitted to Parliament, Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh clarified that the VRA had to take decisive action due to the unusually high water levels in the dam's reservoir.

According to the Minister, had the VRA failed to undertake the "necessary spillage" the country would have experienced dire consequences.

Dr. Opoku Prempeh stated, "If the VRA had not been proactive in spilling this year, the water coming into the reservoir would have over-topped Akosombo Dam, which would have had an unimaginable catastrophic impact on the people."

While acknowledging the disruption caused by the spillage, the Minister emphasised that it was an essential step to safeguard the dam and the communities downstream.

He further assured the affected areas that the government is dedicated to providing relief and support.