Concerns are mounting in the Adansi Asokwa in the Ashanti Region as illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, are reportedly encroaching on the area earmarked for the government’s Agenda 111 hospital project.
Residents say the growing presence of illegal mining operations in and around the project site is raising fears about environmental degradation and the long-term sustainability of the facility once completed.
The Agenda 111 initiative, a national health infrastructure programme aimed at expanding access to healthcare through the construction of district hospitals, has been identified as a key development project for the area.
However, community members warn that ongoing land disturbances and pollution from galamsey activities could undermine construction efforts and increase the risk of future flooding due to the destruction of natural drainage systems and vegetation cover.
Some residents have therefore called on authorities to intensify enforcement measures against illegal mining in the area and protect the project site from further encroachment.
They also expressed concern that without urgent intervention, the combined impact of environmental damage and weak land protection could delay the completion of the hospital and affect its long-term functionality.
Authorities are yet to issue an official response, but pressure is mounting for stronger action to safeguard the project and restore environmental order in affected communities.
