The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC), led by Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has ordered an immediate halt to the multi-million-cedi China Mall construction project in Koforidua. The decision, made on Friday, 22 May 2026, follows repeated instances of severe, artificial flooding caused by the ongoing construction, which has disrupted transportation and raised public safety concerns in the New Juaben South Municipality.
Project Under Scrutiny
The China Mall project, located opposite Newlands Hospital near the Dadis Bar traffic intersection, has become a focal point for criticism due to its impact on local drainage systems. A recent heavy downpour overwhelmed the construction site, causing a significant volume of floodwater to spill onto the main dual carriageway.
This deluge brought traffic to a standstill and left pedestrians stranded, prompting fears of potential damage to road infrastructure and highlighting a serious public safety risk. The situation has led to accusations of regulatory negligence against both the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly and the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council.
History of Non-Compliance
This is the third time authorities have suspended construction activities on the China Mall project. Previous directives mandated that developers install robust drainage networks and subterranean culverts to manage stormwater flow before commencing vertical construction.
However, reports indicate that these binding orders have not been fully complied with, leading to the recurring flooding issues. The project, which began construction in early 2025, has faced opposition from residents and environmental advocates who argue that construction is permitted within a sensitive, natural riparian zone.
Ministerial Intervention and Demands
Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey personally visited the site, accompanied by police officers and senior drainage engineers. She issued a stern warning, ordering the immediate cessation of all construction work.
The Minister directed the regional police command to secure the site and ensure full compliance, stating that any violation would result in severe legal consequences. She emphasized that the developers must collaborate with engineering teams from the Municipal Assembly and Urban Roads Department.
Before any approval to resume construction can be considered, the contractors are required to rectify all existing structural and hydraulic engineering failures. Crucially, they must complete the mandated drainage infrastructure to adequately handle stormwater.
Broader Implications
The halt on the China Mall project underscores a growing tension between rapid urban development and the imperative of environmental sustainability and public safety in Koforidua. It serves as a stark reminder to developers of the critical importance of adhering to building codes and environmental regulations, particularly in areas prone to natural water flow.
For residents, the intervention brings temporary relief but also highlights the need for stricter oversight of large-scale construction projects. The incident may prompt a review of current planning and enforcement mechanisms within the New Juaben South Municipality and the wider Eastern Region.
Looking Ahead
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of the China Mall project. Observers will be watching closely to see if the developers can effectively address the engineering and drainage deficiencies. The response from municipal authorities in enforcing the new directives and ensuring long-term solutions will also be a key indicator of progress. The incident raises questions about the adequacy of environmental impact assessments and the enforcement of regulations for major construction projects across the region.
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