The Acting Chief Executive of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Prof Nana Ama Klutse has called for urgent measures to reclaim and rehabilitate water bodies affected by illegal mining activities.
During her maiden working visit to the Ashanti Region, she expressed deep concern over the level of destruction caused by mining operations near major rivers particularly at Pasoro near river Offin in the Atwima Nwabiagya North district.
Speaking during an inspection tour, the EPA boss noted that while her team did not encounter active illegal miners on-site, the environmental devastation was evident.
She described the situation as “pathetic” and urged all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, government agencies, and local communities, to join forces in tackling the menace.
“The pollution of our water bodies is clear for all to see. This is my first visit since assuming office, and what I have witnessed is deeply troubling. We need to rehabilitate the water and reclaim the land,” she stated.
The EPA has recently issued a directive halting all mining activities along river bodies to allow for restoration efforts.
The Chief Executive reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations, emphasizing that all mining operations—whether small, medium, or large-scale—must comply with EPA guidelines.
“Our focus is on protecting our water sources because we cannot survive without clean water. We will continue to monitor compliance, and our officers will conduct unannounced visits to ensure that mining activities in and around river bodies cease immediately,” she warned.
She also addressed concerns about sand mining, which has been a growing issue in several regions.
While acknowledging that sand mining is regulated, she stressed the need for strict adherence to environmental laws.
She urged the Minerals Commission and other regulatory bodies to enhance oversight to prevent further environmental degradation.
The EPA has vowed to intensify enforcement actions against illegal mining and sand winning, calling on all stakeholders to support efforts to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
Illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, has led to severe environmental damage in Ghana, particularly in water bodies that serve as sources of drinking water.
The government and regulatory agencies have been making efforts to curb the menace, but challenges persist due to enforcement gaps and non-compliance by miners.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
