(VIDEO) Lake Bosomtwe Faces Encroachment Threat as EPA Moves to Halt Illegal Activities
Illegal Encroachment on Lake Bosomtwe Sparks EPA Crackdown to Protect Biosphere Reserve
- Lake Bosomtwe faces growing encroachment in protected zones.
- Environmental Protection Agency orders immediate halt to illegal activities.
- Authorities warn of legal action as environmental damage risks increase.
Environmental concerns are intensifying over rising human activity within the protected areas of Lake Bosomtwe, a designated biosphere reserve, as illegal encroachment threatens its fragile ecosystem.
Reports from Lawson TV News Reporter Asonaba Nana Owusu Aboagye indicate that unknown individuals have begun clearing vegetation and occupying land within the lake’s core conservation zone and surrounding buffer areas. These zones are strictly reserved to preserve biodiversity, regulate human activity, and protect the lake’s long-term ecological health.
The situation has escalated in nearby communities including Adwafo, Abrodwum, and Abaase, where increasing land clearing has raised alarms over deforestation, soil erosion, and declining water quality.
In response, the Environmental Protection Agency has moved swiftly to halt all ongoing illegal activities. The Ashanti Regional Director of the EPA, Dr. Jackson Adiya, has issued an immediate stop order, warning that further destruction will not be tolerated.
As part of enforcement actions, the agency has summoned the Chief of Abease and other individuals believed to be connected to the encroachment. They are expected to assist with investigations and clarify issues surrounding land ownership and authorization.
Authorities have emphasized that anyone found culpable will face legal consequences, stressing that protected ecological zones cannot be exploited for private gain.
Environmental advocacy groups, including A Rocha Ghana, have also raised concerns, warning that continued encroachment could lead to severe ecological damage if urgent action is not taken.
The Water Resources Commission has similarly cautioned that ongoing degradation of the lake’s protected areas could result in significant biodiversity loss and long-term environmental instability.
Officials say the combined enforcement and community engagement efforts are critical to safeguarding one of Ghana’s most important natural heritage sites.
Story by Asonaba Nana Owusu Aboagye Aduomi
