The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is ramping up efforts to combat illegal mining, known as galamsey.
This is because concerns over water pollution and environmental degradation are escalating.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the EPA, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has directed regional and area officers to intensify monitoring and enforcement to curb the menace.
During a recent inspection of polluted water bodies, Prof. Klutse highlighted the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s rivers, noting that visibly contaminated water has made life difficult for many communities.
She emphasized that officers must be proactive in measuring pollution levels and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
“You can clearly see from here that the water is contaminated, and this is a direct result of illegal mining activities. We cannot allow this to continue,” she stated, urging immediate action from EPA officers.
Community members in affected areas have expressed their struggles, explaining that they once relied on these rivers for drinking and domestic use but can no longer do so due to severe pollution.
Prof. Klutse acknowledged their plight and stressed the need for collaboration with local leaders, including chiefs, to stop illegal miners from further damaging water sources.
“The EPA is working closely with local authorities and community members to restore these rivers before they dry up completely. We need all hands on deck to protect our natural resources,” she added.
As part of the intensified crackdown, the EPA plans to engage with stakeholders and increase enforcement measures to prevent further destruction.
The agency has also urged communities to report illegal mining activities to ensure swift intervention.
Source : www.kumasimail.com
