Asiakwa, Oct 16, GNA - The Parliamentary Select Committee on Water Resources Works and Housing, has urged chiefs in the Akyem area in the Eastern Region, to desist from releasing lands for illegal mining, popularly known as "galamsey".

The committee gave the advice after paying a working visit to Bunso, Asiakwa and Akooko in the area where they inspected water bodies that had been polluted through illegal mining.

Ms Abena Dapaah, ranking member of the Committee, said the extent of pollution of water bodies in the area was unacceptable and advised chiefs to be cautious of releasing lands for "galamsey". She asked mining companies to take into consideration the health of the people when undertaking their activities and advised the chiefs to lead the crusade against "galamsey."

The East Akyem Municipal Chief Executive, Mr Peter Asirifi expressed worry that water bodies in the area had been polluted through the activities of illegal mining operators, who washed minerals in rivers and other water bodies.

He said the Ghana Water Company had to pump out water containing manganese and fluoride from water bodies and appealed to the Committee to raise the issue at Parliament for stringent measures to be taken against "galamsey" operators.

Mr Philip Amanor, Regional Director of Community Water and Sanitation, briefed the Committee on the small water projects at Akooko and Asiakwa. He said Water and Sanitation Development Boards had been formed to ensure judicious use of water and proper accounting on its sale and that KVIP's and water closets had been provided for communities that benefit from the projects.

Mr David Asimeng-Tetteh, chairman of the Committee, and Member of Parliament for Shai-Osudoku, said government was committed to providing portable water for the people and gave the assurance that the Asesewa water project would be extended to communities in the area. He said the Committee would present the outcome of the visit to Parliament for the necessary action. 16 Oct. 09