The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has issued a stark warning that Ghana could soon face a nationwide water shortage if the government fails to take decisive action to halt illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
The country’s largest labour union raised the alarm during a fact-finding mission to assess the state of water treatment plants in the Kwanyako, Brim, and Akyem areas of the Central and Eastern Regions.
Speaking to JoyNews, the TUC Secretary-General, Joshua Ansah, described the situation as “deeply troubling,” revealing that galamsey pollution has pushed some facilities to the brink of shutdown.
“It’s really sad. What we have heard and seen with our own eyes this morning is alarming,” he said.
“If we don’t take immediate action, it’s going to be very difficult. …They’ve had to install a new pump at the surface just to draw a little water for use. If urgent steps are not taken, the entire plant could shut down, and water will become a scarce commodity for Ghanaians.”
Mr. Ansah called on President John Mahama to declare a state of emergency to confront the illegal mining crisis head-on, warning that the TUC will be compelled to take “a drastic decision” if the government fails to act.
“Today has dampened our spirit, but it has also strengthened our resolve. We will engage the government to take pragmatic measures to end galamsey once and for all.
“Whatever means it takes to curb this menace, we will demand it. A State of emergency is both urgent and necessary.”
He added that the TUC leadership would meet after completing their nationwide inspection to deliberate on the next steps.
“For now, we are sounding a strong caution and urging the President to take immediate, decisive action. Galamsey must stop, and it must stop now,” Mr Ansah stressed.
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