Lofa Bridge Risks Possible Collapse, Amid Unregulated Mining in Grand Cape Mount
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ADNews-Cape Mount, Liberia: Growing concerns are emerging from Lofa Bridge Town as that ongoing, unchecked dredging activities along the Lofa River could jeopardize the entire structural of the Bridge.
By Persie Folley
Currently, miners are seeing aggressively dredging on both sides of the river, weakening the soil that supports the bridge.
On the daily basis, operators are digging deep into the riverbed, extracting minerals, and leaving behind unstable ground and large pits.
The simultaneous operations on both riverbanks are accelerating erosion around the bridge’s foundation, raising fears of a potential collapse and posing terrible situation.
Meanwhile, waste from mining operations is often discharged directly into the river, heightening concerns about pollution and long-term environmental damage.
According to sources, mining activities in the area have intensified in recent years, with operators using rafts, water pumps, and heavy equipment to extract minerals from beneath the riverbed.
Even though Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has repeatedly warned that illegal and unregulated mining can lead to river diversion, deforestation, and water contamination. However, enforcement in remote areas continues to pose serious challenges.
Amidst this situation, the County residents remain hopeful for swift action to prevent a potential disaster and protect a critical transportation link in the region.
Investigation continues to unearth company involved and their legal stance.
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