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The Central Regional Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a warning over a possible earthquake threat in parts of the region, citing excessive quarrying activities as a major risk factor.
The Regional Director, Mr. Emmanuel Kwesi Dawood, raised the alarm while addressing the media after a three-day workshop for district NADMO directors. He expressed concern about the rapid expansion of stone quarrying across several districts, describing the situation as dangerous and requiring urgent intervention.
According to him, areas including Gomoa East, Awutu Senya East, Awutu Senya West, Gomoa Central and Gomoa West have seen a surge in quarry operations, many of which involve the use of explosives. He warned that continued blasting in these communities—particularly within the Kasoa enclave—could create conditions capable of triggering seismic disturbances.
Mr. Dawood urged quarry operators to halt their activities immediately, stressing that the use of explosives poses what he described as a “time bomb” that could result in a major disaster if not addressed.
He indicated that NADMO is collaborating with relevant authorities to regulate and, where necessary, shut down unsafe quarry and mining operations in the affected areas. He added that enforcement measures would be intensified to ensure compliance with safety standards.
As part of broader disaster prevention efforts, NADMO has begun demolishing dilapidated structures identified as high-risk and is undertaking drainage improvement works in selected districts to reduce the impact of flooding.
The Regional Director also cautioned residents along the coast against illegal sand mining, announcing the formation of a taskforce to monitor activities and apprehend offenders. He noted that such practices weaken coastal defenses and increase vulnerability to environmental hazards.
Mr. Dawood further disclosed that forecasts indicate the likelihood of heavy rainfall in the coming months. In response, NADMO is scaling up public education campaigns and accelerating drainage projects to mitigate potential flooding and related disasters.
He commended the 24 district NADMO directors for their commitment and urged them to remain vigilant and proactive in their respective jurisdictions.
Participants at the workshop praised the Regional Director for the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary. They pledged their support for ongoing interventions and called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure a disaster-free Central Region.
Source: Ghana/channel247online.com/YawBoagyan
Yaw Boagyan
