The Business Quarry Operators Affiliation (CoQOA) has issued a robust warning to authorities authorities, threatening a nationwide suspension of quarry actions if pressing motion is just not taken to halt the rising encroachment on quarry lands throughout the nation.
The affiliation raised the alarm over what it describes as a severe danger to public security and nationwide improvement, significantly in high-risk areas equivalent to Buoho, Ablekuma, Nsawam, and Budumburam.
In an announcement, CoQOA revealed that constructions are being erected as shut as 10 to twenty metres from lively blasting zones—grossly violating Regulation 176 of the Minerals and Mining (Explosives) Laws, 2012 (L.I. 2177), which stipulates a 500-metre buffer between blasting websites and human settlements.
“These violations not solely endanger lives however are additionally crippling the operations of legally compliant quarry firms,” the Affiliation acknowledged.
CoQOA refuted claims that licensed operators are flouting security protocols. As a substitute, it positioned the blame squarely on unlawful settlers who, in lots of instances, have resorted to incitement and misinformation by means of media channels.
“Opposite to public notion, it isn’t licensed quarry operators violating security protocols, however reasonably unauthorised settlers breaching legally protected zones,” the assertion stated, including that some encroachers have even issued threats to quarry staff.
The affiliation additionally referred to as on the media to uphold skilled ethics and keep away from sensationalism that distorts the info.
“Giving unverified platforms to encroachers whereas vilifying licensed operators distorts the reality and undermines public confidence,” CoQOA cautioned. It urged media homes to advertise balanced and fact-based reporting within the curiosity of public security and nationwide improvement.
CoQOA is demanding rapid motion from key establishments together with the Ministry of Lands and Pure Assets, the Minerals Fee, and the Environmental Safety Company (EPA).
Amongst its suggestions are the demolition of unauthorised constructions, prosecution of offenders, disconnection of utility providers to unlawful settlements, and expedited court docket motion on associated instances.
“We is not going to stand idle whereas encroachment and misinformation threaten the survival of our business and the security of our staff and communities. The time for motion is now,” the Affiliation concluded.
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