The District Chief Executive for Shai-Osudoku District Assembly in the Greater Accra Region, Ignatius Godfred Dordoe, has held a stakeholder dialogue with quarry operators to address operational challenges and their impact on surrounding communities.

The meeting provided a platform for open discussions on the effects of quarry activities, particularly blasting, on residents living near quarry sites.

Operators acknowledged that blasting operations can sometimes dislodge rock particles from nearby cliffs, posing risks to buildings within designated buffer zones.

They also identified dust emissions as a persistent environmental and public health concern affecting nearby communities.

To improve relations and promote responsible operations, the quarry companies highlighted the establishment of a Quarry Development Fund aimed at supporting community projects and fulfilling their Corporate Social Responsibilities in a more structured and sustainable manner.

However, operators raised concerns over what they described as increasing and, at times, excessive demands from some community members, noting that such pressures were impacting their finances and overall business performance.

Mr. Dordoe commended the operators for initiating the fund and urged them to strengthen safety protocols, particularly in blasting operations and dust control measures.

“The Assembly is committed to balancing economic activity with community safety.

We will continue to engage all stakeholders to find practical solutions that benefit both the industry and residents,” he stated.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to sustained dialogue, strict adherence to safety regulations, and transparent management of the Quarry Development Fund to effectively address community needs.