By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
There is a looming danger in and around Konongo, in the Ashanti region, as the youth of the town have threatened to halt illegal mining commonly known Galamsey activities in the area if the government does not take immediate steps to stop it.
Currently some people with heavy machinery have invaded the town and are actively engaged in illegal mining thus destroying water bodies and farm lands.
The galamsey operations which are done openly and in some cases very close to the main Kumasi-Accra highway, is threatening to destroy a major water source and sparking outrage among residents especially the youth.
The mining activities, located on the main Kumasi-Accra highway, are polluting the Owere River, which supplies water to communities in Konongo and surrounding areas.
Excavators and mining equipment are actively being used, just meters away from homes, churches, and businesses.
A portion of the highway, near the mining site, is caving in and is yet to be repaired.
However, Environmental Protection Agency and Minerals Commission officials who spoke with the media claim they were only informed about a dredging exercise by the Asante Akim Central Assembly, but were unaware of the mining activities.
An illegal mining activity been done under a broad daylight cannot be said to be hidden from the authorities responsible for ensuring the safety of the environment.
The situation has raised serious concerns about the government’s ability to regulate mining activities and protect the environment.
Some residents who spoke to journalists are demanding immediate action to halt the mining and restore their water source
According to them they are frustrated, citing the continuous destruction of water bodies and farmlands due to illegal mining.
The Head Pastor of the New Life Church of Light expressed anger and concern over the development, highlighting the devastating impact on the community.
