By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), Feb. 28, GNA – The Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) has urged residents and communities relying on the Tordze River to consume only treated water while waiting for the results of laboratory tests on suspected contamination.
Despite preliminary findings showing no immediate threat to human or aquatic life, the VRCC has advised caution until conclusive test results are available.
A statement dated February 27, signed by Mr. Augustus Awity, Chief Director and Coordinating Director, the VRCC provided an update on efforts to assess the situation.
The directive cautioned residents against using the river for domestic activities until safety assessments were completed.
To ensure public safety, the VRCC activated key state institutions and agencies to investigate the potential impact of the contamination.
The institutions include Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Water Resources Commission (WRC), Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA), Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), Fisheries Commission, National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and Environmental Health Unit of the VRCC.
The agencies conducted a comprehensive assessment of the river and its tributaries using various investigative methods.
It said the assessment process included Water Sample Collection from different points along the river for laboratory testing, visual Inspections checked for dead aquatic life, changes in water colour, and unusual odour, community Interviews residents were questioned about any unusual observations since the suspected contamination as well as health facility monitoring Local clinics were visited to determine if there were any cases linked to waterborne contamination.
It was noted that water from the Togo side took approximately 48 hours to reach the Kpetoe area, making Kpetoe upstream a key site for sampling.
According to the release, initial assessment revealed no signs of dead or distressed aquatic species, no pungent odours or visible discoloration, no reported health issues linked to water contamination and water quality attributes remained normal before and after the suspected spill
The VRCC disclosed that additional samples have been sent to the Ghana Standards Authority and the Central Laboratory of the Ghana Water Company Limited for pesticide residue analysis.
It said these tests would determine any long-term impact on human health and aquatic life.
In the meantime, the VRCC has urged all affected communities to remain cautious and consume only treated water.
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring the safety of our people,” the statement concluded.
Residents are advised to stay updated on official announcements as authorities continue their investigations.
On February 19, the Council issued a public warning following reports of an accidental agrochemical spill into the Tordze River from the Republic of Togo.
GNA