Residents of Kpayah in Electoral District #3, Bong County, have raised concerns over worsening water conditions reportedly linked to the activities of DA-TANG Mining Company Incorporated.
They have meanwhile demanded an urgent investigation into the company’s operations, and their impact on community water sources. Residents have also accused the mining company of contributing to the deterioration of ponds, streams, and creeks that some community members depend on for drinking, and domestic purposes. For the reason, several water sources around the community have reportedly become muddy, and visibly dirty, raising concerns about possible environmental, and public health risks. The situation, they say, has been compounded by the unreliable operation of a community hand pump, which frequently runs dry, and leaves residents with limited alternatives.With access to safe, and reliable water remaining a major concern, residents say some community members are forced to turn to surface water when the hand pump becomes unavailable. They argue that the situation requires immediate attention from government authorities rather than continued assurances, particularly because mining activities can have significant effects on surrounding land, and water resources if environmental safeguards are not properly enforced. The residents have called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), local authorities, and other relevant government institutions to conduct an independent assessment of the water sources in Kpayah. They want authorities to determine whether DA-TANG’s mining operations have contributed to the alleged pollution, and if violations are established, ensure that appropriate measures are taken. However, DA-TANG Mining Company has rejected the accusations. The company’s liaison officer, Kerkulah Togba, denied the allegations, and said, DA-TANG has taken steps to improve access to safe water in communities within its operational area. Togba said, the company constructed hand pumps in several catchment communities, including Kpayah in 2026. He also stated that DA-TANG repaired a hand pump at Kpayah Public School that had reportedly remained out of service for several years. Togba urged residents with concerns to communicate directly with the company rather than circulate “misinformation.” Despite the company’s denial, residents insist that their concerns about water availability, and quality remain unresolved. The conflicting claims have now placed increased pressure on environmental authorities to independently verify the situation rather than allow the dispute to remain based solely on competing statements.
