An alarming illegal mining operation at Nhyiaso in the Obuasi West Municipality has sparked serious concerns about the safety and stability of critical power infrastructure in the area. A video circulating on social media shows an excavator operating dangerously close to a high-voltage pylon, one of the key structures that carry electricity across Obuasi and neighboring communities.
The site of the illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, is perilously close to the base of the pylon, raising fears that continued excavation could destabilize or even topple the structure. Experts warn that if even one of these pylons were to fall, it could lead to a massive blackout across Obuasi and surrounding areas, lasting weeks or even months before full power is restored.
This situation is a threat to electricity supply and a major public safety hazard. The collapse of a high-voltage pylon could cause serious injuries or fatalities, destroy nearby property, and disrupt schools, businesses, hospitals, and homes across the municipality. It would also place additional financial strain on the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and GRIDCo, who would be forced to mobilize emergency resources for repair works.
Given the severity of the situation, we are calling on the Municipal Chief Executive of Obuasi West, Hon. Faustina Amissah-Appiah Kannin, to take immediate action. The local assembly, in collaboration with the police, National Security, Minerals Commission, and ECG, must move swiftly to:
- Stop the illegal mining activity immediately
- Secure the area around the pylon from further encroachment
- Bring the perpetrators to justice
- Work with stakeholders to prevent future incidents of this nature
The people of Obuasi deserve to feel safe and secure in their communities. We cannot afford to gamble with lives and livelihoods for short-term gains from illegal mining. The MCE’s prompt intervention could save the town from a disaster that is clearly preventable.
We urge Hon. Faustina Kannin and all relevant authorities to act now before it’s too late.