Ofosu-Ampofo appeals to judiciary and media to help save Birim River

Koforidua, Nov. 23, GNA - Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, Eastern Regional Minister, on Tuesday appealed to the media and the judiciary to help save the Birim River from pollution to provide potable water to communities in the Akyem Abuakwa area.

He expressed regret that some of the decisions of the judiciary on cases of pollution of the river by illegal miners were not deterrent enough. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo indicated that at times, the decision of the courts turned to discourage members of the security agencies and the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) from pursuing the illegal miners.

He noted with concern that currently the Ghana Water Company had stopped treating water from four of the water treatment plants situated between Kyebi and Anyinam due to the pollution of the Birim River. He said no matter the treatment of the polluted water, it could not attain the internationally acceptable standards for drinking. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo was speaking at a press conference organized by the REGSEC to explain the efforts being made to stop illegal mining and lumber operations in the region.

He said currently there was an outbreak of cholera in the affected areas and that as at last Friday, 93 cases had been reported. He said cocoa and crop farms were being destroyed by the illegal miners and chainsaw operators. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo said Kyebi, the traditional capital of Akyem Abuakwa, was being served with two boreholes, which were not enough for the whole township.

He therefore appealed to the judiciary, the media, traditional authorities and all stakeholders to co-operate with the REGSEC to help save the situation. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo said the current aim of the REGSEC was to secure the Birim Basin so that the Ghana Water Company could provide potable water to the communities along the Birim River.