The Northern Sector Quarry Operators Association has expressed concern over the increasing encroachment on its members’ licensed quarry sites and warned of the health and safety risks for residents living too close to these areas.

Addressing the issue on the Ghanakoma Morning Show on Akoma 87.9 FM in Kumasi on December 1, 2025, the Association’s Chairman, Adu Tutu, noted that quarry activities—including blasting and explosions—have caused cracks in residential buildings, while dust emissions have led to respiratory problems, particularly among children.

He emphasized that residents are supposed to maintain a minimum distance of half a kilometre from quarry sites. “People have built too close to the sites, so even minor quarry incidents can have significant impacts on them,” he said.

Mr. Adu Tutu further highlighted the prevalence of encroachment on licensed quarry concessions. Operators at these sites hold valid licenses and land title deeds from the Lands Commission, yet disputes over land ownership between quarry operators and encroaching residents have become common, with many cases currently in court.

“The buffer zones designed to separate residential areas from quarry sites are being violated. Encroachers have penetrated these so-called ‘danger zones,’” he added.

He referenced a tragic incident on December 24, 2015, at a quarry in Paebo, Nsawam-Adoagyiri Municipality, where a dynamite explosion killed one person and injured 10 others. Over 2,000 residents were displaced after nearby houses were damaged by the blast.

Adu Tutu appealed to District Assemblies to take stronger action against encroachment, stressing that it is necessary to prevent fatal accidents and protect both residents and quarry operations. He also underlined the quarry industry’s critical contribution to Ghana’s economy, noting that unauthorized occupation of quarry sites undermines government efforts to raise revenue from the sector.

Contributing to the discussion, Kwabre East Municipal Chief Executive Joseph Amankwah urged quarry operators to secure their concessions and declared a firm stance against encroachment in the area.

“It is crucial to protect our natural resources. Development projects require stones. If people encroach on quarry sites, where will we get them? How can we build schools, hospitals, or roads without these materials?” he questioned, warning that violators of laws and regulations governing quarry sites will face strict consequences.