Mr. Eric Akwasi Appiah, the Chief Director of A. Kanin Quarry and company products has expressed grave concern and disappointment over the severe encroachment of the company’s designated buffer zone in Kwabre East, threatening to take matters into his own hands if authorities fail to act immediately.
The Director Appiah stated that he would not aloof until an unexpected disaster occurs, noting that the 500-meter demarcated safety zone amounting to over 200 acres, has been illegally occupied by what he terms these recalcitrant individuals.
Mr. Eric Akwasi Appiah lamented that despite informing key stakeholders, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), no substantial action has been taken to halt the recurring encroachment, which is severely impacting the quarry’s operations. He emphasized that the quarry supplies essential materials for government infrastructure projects, including roads and schools, making the disruption a matter of national concern.
Frustrated by the perceived indifference of the Kwabre Municipal Assembly, the Director issued a stern ultimatum stating that he intends to begin demolishing the illegal structures himself if regulatory bodies do not intervene promptly. He urged NADMO and the EPA to “do the needful” before the situation gets escalated.
Expressing bitter safety concerns, some quarry workers, who work on the site said, they are frequently attacked by these encroachers who have been using offensive weapons such as machetes and sticks. The encroachers reportedly complain that the quarrying activities are detrimental to their homes. The workers appealed directly to the government to intervene urgently, citing fear and intimidation despite performing legitimate work.
In response to the escalating tension, the Kwabre East Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Joseph Amankwah Nurudeen, confirmed that the Assembly has received multiple reports regarding the encroachment.
The MCE assured the public that the Assembly is committed to preventing any disaster and confirmed that the illegal developers have defaulted on regulations. He stated unequivocally that the encroached buildings would be demolished before the situation escalates further.
Hon. Nurudeen used the opportunity to advise developers to strictly adhere to building codes and desist from erecting structures on buffer zones and other restricted areas, warning that the Assembly would not hesitate to demolish any non-compliant structures.
