The Rivers State Government has shut down three dredging sites in Chokocho community, Etche Local Government Area, for operating without permits.
According to The PUNCH, the Commissioner for Environment, Sydney Gbara, led an inspection team to enforce compliance with environmental regulations.
Gbara frowned on those who carry out such activities without approval from the state government, saying the dredging sites had no environmental protection impact, adding that the activities of the dredging companies were affecting the road.
He stated, “We are here on the directives of Governor Siminalayi Fubara on inspection of dredging activities and necessary enforcement around this area. We have gone around, and some sites have been shut, about three for non-compliance to standards.
“This particular site as you can see is already threatening the federal road and as a responsible government, we will not want to stop the means of livelihood of our people. No, we are encouraging them.
“But when what they are doing becomes inimical to the environment, it becomes a problem and we have to step in. and that is why we are shutting down these sites. This place is going to remain shut until the Governor directs otherwise.”
The commissioner said the present administration in the state is committed to protecting the environment and attracting more investors to the state which he said will in turn create jobs for the teeming youths in the state, saying those behind the illicit activities will be fished out and prosecuted.
“We are going to investigate and know those behind these activities and bring them to book. That is the truth. We are going to visit other dredging sites in the state, scrap metals and every other operation.
“If your operation is in compliance with that of the state government, we don’t have business with you. Instead, the government will encourage you and give you the protection that you need to go ahead with your business.
“But as long as it is not in compliance with the State Ministry of Environment, and it is inimical to the environment we are definitely going to step in. Every sector has rules and regulations.
“This is a government that wants to ensure that our people and the environment are protected,” Gbara said.
