Requirements when developing around water bodies in Ghana

The Water Resources Commission (WRC) in Ghana regulates activities affecting water resources, and construction (both building and infrastructure) developments near water bodies or impacting water resources must meet specific requirements to ensure sustainable water management. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements:

1. Water Use Permit

For projects that require water extraction (for construction processes, landscaping, or operational use), a Water Use Permit must be obtained. This permit specifies the amount of water allowed for use, the source, and conditions to prevent over-extraction and contamination.

Applications require details about water demand, source, purpose, and environmental considerations to protect local ecosystems.

2. Buffer Zone Compliance

Projects near water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, wetlands, and coastal areas, must comply with buffer zone regulations to prevent ecological disruption and maintain water quality.

Buffer zones typically restrict development within a specified distance (varies based on the water body type and sensitivity) and prohibit certain construction activities to preserve natural vegetation and prevent erosion.

3. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Review

The Water Resources Commission requires a review of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), focusing specifically on water resource impacts. The EIA should outline any potential effects on water quality, flow patterns, and ecosystem health.

The WRC examines project plans to determine the likelihood of pollution, sedimentation, or disruptions to water flow, including potential impacts on downstream users and aquatic life.

4. Storm water and Drainage Management Plan

A Storm water Management Plan is mandatory to prevent runoff from contaminating nearby water sources. This plan should address water flow control during and after construction, including sediment traps, drainage systems, and proper slope management.

Effective drainage systems reduce the risk of flooding and pollution in nearby rivers or lakes, maintaining the water quality and flow consistency.

5. Water Quality Protection Measures

Developers are required to implement Water Quality Protection Measures to prevent contamination of surface and groundwater resources. This involves specific guidelines for handling construction materials, chemicals, and waste to avoid accidental discharge into water bodies.

Regular monitoring of water quality near the construction site may be required, ensuring that pollutants such as sediments, oil, and chemicals are kept within safe limits.

6. Wastewater and Effluent Management Plan

Construction projects that generate wastewater must develop an Effluent Management Plan detailing the treatment and disposal methods for wastewater produced during construction activities.

The plan should include wastewater discharge points, treatment processes, and monitoring systems to prevent untreated effluents from entering water bodies.

7. Hydrological Study (If Required)

For large-scale infrastructure projects, especially dams, bridges, and major buildings near water sources, a Hydrological Study may be required. This study assesses the project's impact on local hydrology, including potential alterations to natural water flow and flood risks.

The WRC reviews these studies to ensure that water bodies remain stable and that the project does not increase flood risk or water scarcity in the region.

8. Public Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement

Developers are required to engage with local communities and stakeholders, particularly for projects near water sources that communities depend on for drinking water, agriculture, or fishing.

Documenting these consultations shows community awareness and addresses any public concerns regarding the impact on local water resources.

9. Construction and Post-Construction Monitoring

The WRC mandates monitoring of water quality and flow during and after construction to ensure compliance with water protection measures. Monitoring typically involves periodic testing and reporting to the WRC on parameters such as turbidity, pH, and pollutant levels.

If post-construction activities (like landscaping or irrigation) continue to affect water resources, ongoing permits and monitoring may be required.

10. Permit for Groundwater Abstraction (if applicable)

For developments requiring groundwater abstraction (e.g., boreholes or wells), a Groundwater Abstraction Permit from the WRC is necessary. This involves hydrogeological studies to assess the sustainability of groundwater extraction.

The permit outlines safe extraction rates, ensuring that groundwater resources are not depleted and nearby wells or water bodies are not adversely affected.

11. Compliance with Sustainable Water Use and Conservation Practices

Developers are encouraged to adopt water-efficient technologies and practices, including rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation systems, and low-flow fixtures to reduce water demand.

Construction plans should demonstrate efforts to conserve water, minimize wastage, and protect natural water sources as per WRC guidelines.

12. Payment of Applicable Fees

Fees for permits, applications, and water use rights are part of the WRC’s regulatory process. These fees vary based on project scope, water requirements, and the sensitivity of the location relative to water bodies.

Failure to meet these requirements may result in fines, suspension of construction activities, or revocation of permits. Each step ensures that construction aligns with Ghana’s water resource sustainability objectives, protecting water quality, ecosystem health, and the needs of surrounding communities.