EPA Warns boiling Galamsey Water Does Not Make It Safe To Drink

Story By: Deborah Adorsu

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has warned residents of illegal mining communities to stop boiling and drinking water from galamsey polluted sources.

The Authority says the water may contain mercury, cyanide and arsenic, which boiling cannot remove.

“The notion that boiled galamsey contaminated water is safe for drinking is false. While boiling kills bacteria, it does not remove harmful chemicals such as mercury and cyanide,” the EPA said.

An official of the EPA office in Twifo Praso, David Agyekum Baidoo, said many villages without pipe borne water depend on polluted streams, putting their health at serious risk.

He said prolonged use for drinking, bathing, farming and livestock can cause kidney damage, neurological harm and birth defects.

He urged affected communities to seek treated water and other safe alternatives.