Residents of several communities in the Bong Mines concession area are facing growing hardships.
The situation is fast deteriorating to the extent that the road conditions and polluted water sources continue to threaten livelihoods.
Bong County Electoral District #7 Representative Foday E. Fahnbulleh, made the disclosure following a recent inspection tour of the concession area.
Rep. Fahnbulleh described the situation as alarming.
He meanwhile, called for immediate intervention to address the challenges confronting affected communities.
Fahnbulleh said, he and members of his team conducted the visit as part of ongoing efforts to assess living conditions, and evaluate whether concessionaires are meeting their social responsibilities to communities impacted by mining activities.
During the tour, the delegation inspected a major feeder road connecting Bong Mines to several towns and villages.
Fahnbulleh said, the road has fallen into a deplorable state, making transportation increasingly difficult for residents, traders, students and farmers who rely on it daily.
“The condition of this road has created serious difficulties for our people. Farmers struggle to transport their produce, students face challenges getting to school, and patients encounter delays in reaching health facilities, just because of the poor road network.”
Fahnbulleh said, despite the importance of the road to economic and social activities, there has been little evidence of adequate maintenance; a situation which has left communities isolated and vulnerable.
Beyond infrastructure concerns, Fahnbulleh raised environmental issues, particularly the pollution of creeks and waterways that have traditionally served as the primary source of drinking water.
Several water sources within the concession area appear to have been contaminated by mining-related activities, depriving communities of safe and clean drinking water.
“These creeks once provided dependable drinking water for our people. Today, many residents can no longer rely on them, because of the pollution. This presents a serious public health risk, especially for children and pregnant women.”
Fahnbulleh emphasized the need to access clean water, which is a basic necessity.
He called for the urgent provision of safe drinking water systems in affected communities.
He also highlighted the need for a functional health post within the concession area.
Rep. Fahnbulleh: “Many residents live far from major healthcare facilities, and often struggle to receive timely medical treatment during emergencies.”
He said, the construction of a health post is no longer optional, but a necessity.
Fahnbulleh pledged to continuously engage government authorities, community leaders, and the concessionaire to ensure that concerns relating to road rehabilitation, environmental protection, healthcare access, and clean drinking water are addressed.
Residents who accompanied the delegation welcomed the visit, and expressed the hope that the findings would lead to meaningful action and improved living conditions for communities affected by mining operations.