By Fiona Benson Kollie
Illegal mining activities at the Cesto River Bridge in River Cess County have claimed the attention of Steve Tequah, the county District #2 lawmaker.
Due to the risk factor, Rep. Tequah has communicated to House plenary to probe into the matter, before the bridge flop.
For this, the House on Tuesday, March 3, mandated its Committee on Mines, Energy, Natural Resources and Environment to investigate the “illegal and unregulated mining activities” near the Cestos River Bridge, and report to Plenary within two weeks.
The Tequah’s communication, titled: “Formal Request for the Appearance of the Minister of Mines and Energy Regarding the Structural Integrity of the Cestos River Bridge.”
In his communication addressed to House Speaker, Richard Nagbe Koon, Tequah described the situation as a “matter of grave national concern.”
He said, the reported ongoing illegal and unregulated mining activities are occurring in “dangerous proximity to the foundation of the bridge.
Tequah warned that these activities are causing “erosion of the riverbed, and have therefore, weakened the bridge piers, thereby posing an imminent risk of structural failure.”
Rep. Tequah said, the Cestos River Bridge remains a critical national asset that serves as a primary artery for commerce, healthcare access, and transportation for citizens in the Southeast.
Tequah has therefore requested, under the oversight responsibilities of the august body, should invite the Minister of Mines and Energy to appear before Plenary to address treat posed to the bridge.
He wants the minister to address the regulatory failure, including why mining licenses are being granted or activities permitted so closed to vital public infrastructure; enforcement measures, particularly what immediate actions the Ministry has taken to halt the illegal activities, and hold accountable those compromising the safety of the bridge.
Plenary concurred with the concerns raised and mandated the Committee on Mines, Energy, Natural Resources and Environment to conduct a thorough investigation and submit its findings and recommendations within the prescribed timeframe.
The House recommitted itself to safeguard public infrastructure; ensure regulatory compliance, and protect the lives and livelihoods of Liberians.