Residents of Gbarney Town in Bong County have demanded an urgent action over the pollution of local water sources.
The pollution, residents attributed it Hurine Mining Company activities operated, raising fresh concerns about environmental protection, and the safety of nearby communities.
Residents claim that streams, ponds, and creeks traditionally used for drinking, cooking, and other household activities have become a source of growing concern since mining operations intensified in the area.
Some community members allege how they have experienced stomach, and skin problems, which they connected them to the condition of the water.
However, those claims have not been independently verified, or scientifically linked to Hurine’s operations.
Some of the residents say, the situation has forced some households to take additional precautions, including boiling water before use.
Farmers have also reportedly been carrying water from hand pumps to their farms, “because of concerns over some of the nearby water sources.”
The allegations have placed Hurine Mining Company under increasing scrutiny.
For that, residents have called on the company, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and humanitarian organizations to urgently intervene.
They want water samples taken, and independently tested to determine whether mining-related chemicals are present, and if so, whether the company’s operations are responsible.
The controversy has also raised questions about the effectiveness of environmental monitoring around mining operations, and whether communities have adequate protection when their natural resources are potentially affected.
Hurine Mining Company has meanwhile, challenged the basis of the allegations.
The company’s Human Resources Officer, Lawrence Sumo, questioned whether any scientific testing had been conducted to establish a direct connection between the alleged water contamination, and the health complaints reported by residents.
Sumo called for an independent investigation by the EPA, saying: “scientific evidence should determine the cause of the alleged pollution.”
The competing positions have left Gbarney residents demanding something more concrete than assurances: credible testing, and transparent findings.
