Illegal mining activities in the Western Region are not only destroying water bodies but also crippling firefighting efforts in rural communities.
Regional Fire Commander ACFO III David Asah Darko has raised alarm over the devastating impact of galamsey on emergency response, revealing that polluted rivers and streams are making it nearly impossible for firefighters to battle blazes effectively. "In rural areas, we often rely on nearby water bodies when our fire tenders run out of water," he explained. "Sadly, these rivers and streams, which used to be our lifeline, are now heavily polluted by illegal mining activities." The thick, muddy water from these contaminated sources poses a severe threat to fire engines, as the high turbidity levels can clog and damage pumps. "When our pumps get damaged, it delays our response and affects our efficiency in fighting fires.
Instead of tackling the fire immediately, we waste precious time searching for clean water," ACFO III Darko lamented.
Meanwhile, security forces are intensifying their crackdown on illegal mining in the region.
