At a recent visit to the Kordjor stream, where it was earlier reported that commercial drivers and estate developers were polluting the stream, it was observed that trees along the banks of the stream have been felled by unknown individuals, thereby exposing the stream to the direct rays of the sun.

The trees, aside protecting the stream from dying up, also serve as windbreaks and shelter belts which reduces wind erosion,water evaporation from the soil, transpiration from plants and extreme temperatures.

It was observed that massive reclaiming of the stream’s bank was on going, with the culprits filling the stream with rubbish and other debris.

Besides , this has also exposed the community to extreme temperatures, with the soil gradually eroding.

With the introduction of the "Pay as you dump" refuse system by the assembly, some residents have also resorted to using the banks of the stream as a refuse dump, regardless of its environmental implications.

Commercial drivers have also turned the banks into a washing bay, with the dirty water, detergents and engine oil from the cars flowing directly into the stream, resulting in the pollution of the Kordjor stream.

The stream, like the Kpeshie lagoon, divides the people of Teshie and La, has its source from the Akuapem range, and exits into the Kpeshie lagoon.

Significantly, the stream passes through towns like Amanhia , Oyibi , Adjirigano and Matetsuru, and separates the Kotoka International Airport from the Obedibem village.

In an interview with Kai Agbo Sowahfio, a 90 year lady, said the stream had been their source of water over the past year.

She noted that the introduction of pipe borne water in homes these days had virtually rendered the stream irrelevant.

Madam Kai Agbo Sowahfio recalled, with nostalgia, how they had to walk for miles to fetch water from the stream to their various homes.

"Those days it was a taboo for an individual or any group of people to pitch camp near the stream for inhabitance, the water is a great gift from our gods and we cherish it , but now migration had over stretched the existence of the stream, " the old lady noted.

Meanwhile, a survey around the stream revealed that the youth, around Tebibiano , have turned the banks of the stream, not only into a washing bay, but also into a source of sand winning.

Considering the scarce nature of water supply in the capital city, she thus appealed to government to do all it takes to revitalise the stream.

During the weekends, children are seen washing their clothes in the stream , while other peasant farmers in La use it for irrigation purposes.

The activities of some gravel winners have also exposed the stream to a greater threat.

This has resulted in the banks being eroded, which is affecting the revitalisation of the stream.

Residents of the area have thus called on the members of parliament for both La and Teshie and the traditional council, to prevent people from further destroying the stream.

CHRONICLE/AMA