Several residents of Mpatuom Asuogya in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region are appealing for urgent intervention as illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, lead to flooding of their homes.
According to residents, heavy rains usually trigger flooding but this season water used by galamsey operators in gold processing has surged into homes, rendering life unbearable.
Many fear the situation will worsen once the rains arrive as affected residents report extensive property damage and displacement.
Madam Ama Ketewa, a landlord, recounted her ordeal to the media, demanding compensation from those operating the mines.
“My grandchildren and some tenants were in the house at night when the flooding occurred. Some residents saved them, otherwise I could have lost them. What kind of recklessness is this?” she lamented.
Other residents are calling on the government to intensify efforts against illegal mining, warning that the unchecked galamsey menace poses serious threats to life and property in communities like Mpatuom Asuogya.
While acknowledging that many community members participate in galamsey activities, the residents called for an end to the destruction brought by illegal mining.
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