More than 20 inhabitants of Buoho in the Afigya Kwabre South District of the Ashanti Region have experienced damage to their homes and properties due to a significant explosion at a local quarry company.
The explosion on Tuesday morning allegedly obliterated numerous household objects, including technological devices like televisions.
The impacted residences are located near the KAS Quarry Company, which has operated in the vicinity for several years. Residents report that the recurrent blasting operations from the quarry frequently induce panic and worry within the community.
Following the recent event, neighbors voiced their displeasure and apprehension for their safety, urging authorities to mitigate the hazards associated with the company’s operations. They expressed sorrow over the magnitude of the devastation, which has rendered many individuals feeling insecure in their residences.
Attempts to contact representatives of the KAS Quarry Company for comments on the issue have thus far been unsuccessful.
The corporation conducts its blasting operations without regard for the lives in the vicinity. This region contains individuals who obtained licenses from the government prior to erecting their structures. They ought to permit us to enjoy our tranquility. They detonate the stones indiscriminately, disregarding our safety.
In addition to the blasting, their actions generate dust that impacts our health. “We addressed these issues with them some time ago,” remarked Regina Pokuaa Adusei Poku, a resident of Buoho.
“Some of our structures have sustained damage, and our electronic devices have been destroyed due to the company’s blasting.” Whenever they issue the alarm prior to the detonation, it is with minimal advance notice. At times, we are apprehensive about the safety of our children. “They conduct their activities late into the night, which is not always beneficial for us, particularly with children present,” lamented Habiba Issah, a resident of Buoho.
“Panic consistently ensues in the vicinity, particularly prior to the detonation of the stones.” We no longer feel secure residing here. Salamatu Ali, a resident of Buoho, complained, “A comparable incident occurred that caused property damage, necessitating the affected owners to approach the company to guarantee the repairs.”
“Fear is invariably present during the blasting process.” Sakina Ahmed, a Buoho resident, claimed, “This is not the first occurrence, and we persist in reporting this to the company’s management, yet no action is taken.”
The Assembly Member for the Buoho Electoral Area is urging authorities to intervene and resolve the safety issues highlighted by the community. Attempts to contact the management of KAS Products Limited for a statement were fruitless.
A protracted conflict exists between quarry businesses in the Afigya Kwabre South District and villagers residing in the buffer zones of these locations.
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