LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Lilongwe City Council (LCC) has intensified chasing away illegal sand miners along catchment areas including Lilongwe, Nankhaka, Mchesi rivers and other in a bid to preserve the environment from degradation.
Storming Area 17, along Lilongwe River on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, the LCC Environmental Department uncovered deep wells of sand mining that pose dangers to miners and the environment.
LCC Environmental Officer Cydrick Tambala therefore issued a stern warning about the dangers of sand mining in the city’s waterways.
Tambala cautions, “The practice not only harms the environment but also poses a significant threat to the city’s infrastructure and residents. The indiscriminate sand mining is causing erosion of riverbanks, leading to the collapse of bridges and affecting water quality,” Tambala explained”.
“The act has severe consequences for the ecosystem and human settlements nearby. Sand mining is a regulated activity, requiring permits and adherence to environmental guidelines. Therefore whoever wants to do it properly must engage the city for proper legal permit”.
However, many operators flout these rules, prioritizing profits over sustainability.
Tambala appeal, “We are urging citizens to report any illegal sand mining activities to the authorities, promising swift action against offenders. We must protect our environment and infrastructure for future generations”.
He therefore assured the general public that the LCC will continue with the exercise until illegal sand in stop while offering legal licenses for the activity.