The Acting Chief Executive of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Prof Nana Ama Klutse, is calling for immediate intervention to restore water bodies ravaged by illegal mining, particularly in the Ashanti Region.
On her first official visit to the region, Prof Klutse voiced her alarm over the destruction of rivers, especially near Pasoro, close to the Offin River in the Atwima Nwabiagya North district. Although no active illegal miners were spotted during her visit, the environmental damage was stark and undeniable.
Describing the situation as “pathetic,” Prof Klutse urged a united response from all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, local communities, and government agencies. “The pollution of our water bodies is evident for all to see. What I’ve witnessed here is deeply troubling,” she said, adding, “We must rehabilitate the water and reclaim the land.”
In response to the widespread damage, the EPA has enforced a ban on all mining activities along river bodies in the region to facilitate restoration efforts. Prof Klutse emphasized that her agency is committed to enforcing environmental laws across all scales of mining operations. “We cannot survive without clean water. We will continue to monitor and ensure compliance, conducting unannounced visits to ensure mining activities cease immediately,” she stated.
She also addressed growing concerns about sand winning, acknowledging its regulated status but stressing the need for stricter enforcement of environmental rules. Prof Klutse called on the Minerals Commission and other regulatory bodies to ramp up oversight to prevent further degradation.
Illegal mining, or “galamsey,” has caused severe environmental damage in Ghana, particularly affecting vital water sources. While the government and regulatory agencies have made strides to combat the crisis, challenges persist due to lapses in enforcement and persistent non-compliance by miners.
The EPA’s leadership is now calling for a collective effort to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure the long-term health of the country’s environment.
Source:TheDotNews