By Paul M. Kanneh
In Western Liberia, specifically Gbarpolu County, the construction of road by Indo Africa logging company has led to the obstruction of the free flow of stream water. The blockage seemed to have caused significant impacts on the aquatic life of the citizens and biodiversity, according to observation by the Liberia Forest Media Watch. Biodiversity is different kinds of life that are found in one area such as the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms like bacteria that make up our natural world. Each of these species and organisms work together in ecosystems, like an intricate web, to maintain balance and support life, according to a UK based scientific group.
The blockage of the stream water appeared to have resulted in the destruction of various species of fish and other aquatic life in the water including trees. The trees’ branches and leaves have dried up causing some of the trees to fall. One can see that only trees standing in the water that are affected while those of the trees around the water look green and fresh.
Furthermore, the stagnant water caused by the blockage has also resulted in a foul smell emanating from the water, causing concerns among the local community. Residents of the area have raised alarm over the deteriorating water quality, and called on the authorities to impress on Indo Africa Logging Company to remove the blockage to allow the free flow of the water.
Environmental experts have warned that the continuous blockage of this stream could have a far-reaching consequence on the local ecosystem and biodiversity. They are calling on the Environmental Protection Agency, Forestry Development Authority, and other environmental groups to take immediate action to address the issue and mitigate the impacts caused by the water blockage on the aquatic species and water quality in the area.
With the continued wave of negative human impacts on the environment, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to find sustainable solutions to protect the environment and ensure the preservation of the aquatic ecosystem in not only Gbarpolu County but the entire country. The impact of these human activities on watercourses has led to increased contamination, eutrophication, erosion and reduced biodiversity in streams and rivers across the world.
