Bridge collapses in Ghana's Ashanti Region cause flooding and isolation

Severe flooding and infrastructure failure have caused significant disruption across the Ashanti Region of Ghana. In the Suame Municipality, the Owabi River overflowed its banks following heavy rainfall, causing a portion of the Kronum Aboahia bridge to collapse. The flooding swept away seven tricycles and three vehicles; while the vehicles were eventually retrieved, they sustained heavy damage. Residents noted that choked drains due to refuse dumping exacerbated the flooding and have called for urgent desilting and bridge repairs.

In the Atwima Mponua District, the collapse of a bridge over the River Kukubu has isolated several communities, including Abesua No. 1, Abesua No. 2, Nyamebekyere, Abrokyire, Seribuso, and Mankranso. Local reports indicate that illegal mining activities, known as galamsey, contributed to the destruction by degrading the riverbanks. The loss of this vital link has severely impacted local trade and education, as students are frequently unable to reach schools and teachers face impassable routes.