Tanzania, July 8 -- Mbeya. Illegal gold mining activities in Chunya District, Mbeya Region, have been blamed for increasing silt levels in Lake Rukwa, with authorities warning that the practice is accelerating environmental degradation and raising flood risks for communities around the lake.

The Lake Rukwa Basin Water Board has warned miners against carrying out illegal activities and using chemicals in rivers that drain into the lake, saying such practices pollute water sources and increase sediment deposits.

The board said mining, farming, and other activities conducted in river reserves in breach of regulations were among the factors contributing to environmental damage in the basin.

Speaking to The Citizen's sister newspaper, Mwana...