Assemblies across the Central Region have rolled out a new initiative to cover abandoned mining pits left behind by illegal mining activities. Speaking on Denkyiraman Radio’s National Agenda, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Upper Denkyira East, Hon. George Anane Coleman, revealed that he had submitted a proposal to the Central Regional Minister, which has since been approved by the Regional Security Council.
Hon. Coleman explained that the project moves away from the old approach of only arresting culprits and seizing equipment, while leaving behind hazardous pits. He disclosed that machinery for the reclamation work has been provided by the Regional Minister, Hon. Ekow Okyere Panin, and handed over to Engineer Amoh to oversee operations. The exercise will involve key agencies such as the Lands Commission, EPA, NADMO, Forestry Commission, and the Police Service.
The MCE further appealed to residents, traditional leaders, and Assembly Members in affected communities to assist in identifying pits and the individuals responsible for digging them. He emphasized that once a pit is reported, a machine will be dispatched to cover it. Engineer Amoh, who described the move as timely, added that the project will be funded by pit owners at an affordable cost, with monitoring measures in place to ensure reclaimed areas are protected.
