The Volta River Authority (VRA) has intensified its drive to protect the Volta Lake ecosystem by engaging stakeholders in the Krachi East Municipality on its Environmental Management Plan for the Akosombo and Kpong Hydroelectric Power Plants.
The forum brought together government officials, traditional leaders, assembly members, security personnel and community representatives to address growing concerns over encroachment and environmental degradation along the lake.
Speaking at the engagement, Principal Community Relations Officer, Mrs Rhoda Arthur, outlined the importance of safeguarding the 280-foot contour line, which serves as a critical buffer zone for VRA operations and public safety.
She expressed worry about increasing human settlements, farming activities and other developments within the protected area, warning that such encroachments threaten both safety and the integrity of the hydroelectric infrastructure.
Mrs Arthur also urged communities to adopt regular sanitation practices along the riverbanks to prevent plastic waste and other pollutants from entering the lake, stressing that poor waste management continues to affect water quality.
She cautioned against indiscriminate tree cutting along the shoreline, noting that vegetation plays a key role in preventing erosion, stabilising banks and sustaining aquatic life.
On agriculture, the VRA highlighted the risks associated with farming near the lake, particularly the use of chemicals that could be washed into the water body and harm fish stocks and overall water quality. Farmers were encouraged to adopt environmentally safe practices to protect livelihoods dependent on the lake.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Krachi East, Mr Safo Nketia, commended the initiative and reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to working with VRA to address environmental challenges in the area.
He assured residents that the Assembly would continue collaboration with the Authority to promote sustainable development and improve living conditions along the Volta Lake corridor.
The engagement forms part of VRA’s broader efforts to strengthen environmental protection, ensure public safety and support the long-term sustainability of hydroelectric power generation.
