Work is set to commence on a five-kilometre stretch sea defence project to check erosion on the Ningo-Prampram shores.

The project which is estimated to cost some $70 million is expected to protect lives and properties along the shore from tidal waves.

Speaking to Joy News at the sod-cutting ceremony by President Akufo-Addo as part of his Greater Accra Regional tour Wednesday, Works and Housing Minister, Samuel Atta Akyea said the project will push the sea further back to make more land available and prevent the siting of buildings close to the sea.

“This (project) is very capital intensive. But we need to do this because of two things; here is a salt mining area so their livelihood must be enhanced and they will be able to do their salt business.

“Number two is so that they will be able to go fishing and again prevent any arrangement in which somebody might site a hotel or resort here close to the beach because of the way our sea defence is poor. It will also expose this place if we do this work,” he said.

The Minister was also optimistic residents will not be ejected during the construction period.

“I do not see how this arrangement is going to dislodge dwelling houses. On the contrary, it’s going to help them better. The project will protect lives and enhance the livelihood,” he emphasised.

Touching on the funding for the project, Mr Atta Akyea said government will pay the contractor after the project is completed.

“It works this way, the contractor will do the work and submit the certificate through the consultancy hydro and then we will see what the kitty will dole out.”

 The Ningo-Prampram sea defence project is expected to be completed in 2024.