# Lake Pamvotis environmental cleanup operation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/lake-pamvotis-environmental-cleanup-operation > Updated: 2026-10-01T17:44:28.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. The Natural Environment and Climate Change Organization (OFYPEKA) is conducting a multi-phase underwater cleaning operation in Lake Pamvotis, Ioannina, to restore the lake’s ecosystem. Initial reports from the second phase of the program noted the recovery of various submerged items, including motorcycles, bicycles, boats, and agricultural machinery. During these efforts, divers also uncovered historical artifacts, specifically two World War II-era shells. The operation involves inspecting discharge pipes and monitoring pits to gather data on ecosystem pressures. By early October, the cleanup reached a milestone of recovering more than 45 tons of waste. In addition to household appliances and tires, divers discovered further World War II-era munitions, such as helmets, weapons, and shells, which require safe removal. OFYPEKA officials indicated that recovered materials are being sent for recycling and emphasized the need for increased environmental responsibility among local professionals operating on the lake. The project is expected to continue through the end of the year. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-01: Lake Pamvotis cleanup recovers over 45 tons of waste Divers have removed over 45 tons of waste, including vehicles, electronics, and WWII munitions, from Lake Pamvotis in Ioannina as part of an ongoing environmental cleanup operation. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lake-pamvotis-cleanup-recovers-over-45-tons-of-waste ### 2026-09-21: Lake Pamvotis cleaning uncovers WWII shells and debris During an underwater cleaning of Lake Pamvotis in Ioannina, the Natural Environment and Climate Change Organization recovered World War II shells alongside various debris, including vehicles and appliances. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lake-pamvotis-wwii-shells-recovered-during-underwater-cleaning --- Cite as: Lake Pamvotis environmental cleanup operation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/lake-pamvotis-environmental-cleanup-operation