Illegal mining activities are threatening the Ghana Gas pipeline in Akango, located in the Evalue Ajomoro Gwira Municipality of the Western Region.
Despite a mandated 35-meter buffer zone, miners have encroached on the pipeline’s path, risking its safety.
During an inspection visit to assess the pipeline’s condition, the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana National Gas Company, Judith Adjobah Blay addressed the media, reaffirming her commitment to protecting the pipeline’s integrity.
“This pipeline, connecting Essiama Distribution Center to Prestea, is crucial for our operations. However, we’ve received reports of illegal miners encroaching on the protected area.
Upon investigation, we’ve confirmed that the mining activities are perilously close to our pipeline. During our visit, the miners fled upon seeing us and our security detail.” She said.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Gas Company, Judith Adjobah Blay, indicated that the Chief of Akango has stated that “During our meeting at the palace, the chief’s representative proposed that we should demarcate our 35-meter buffer zone around the pipeline to allow mining activities to proceed while ensuring the pipeline’s safety.”
In ensuing safety of the pipelines CEO, Judith Adjobah Blay mentioned that “As Ghana Gas, our priority is protecting our pipelines, a national asset vital for power generation and industrial use.
We’ve informed the community about the risks associated with gas pipelines and the importance of safeguarding our investment. To ensure safety, we’ll mark a 35-meter zone with clear indicators, as recommended by our engineers, to demarcate the danger zone.”
However, she emphasized that ensuring compliance with the marked safety zones will be a major concern moving forward.
“The challenge lies in determining a safe distance for mining activities near our 35-meter buffer zone. Due to the high-impact nature of mining, which can cause soil erosion and pose risks to our pipeline, we’re requesting an additional 50-meter buffer beyond the existing 35 meters.
We aim to engage the chief and community to convey the importance of keeping a safe distance from the pipeline.” She added.
