Audio Attachment Environment, Science and Technology Minister speaks to Joy FM
Government has served notice it would prosecute telecoms industries which put up masts without authorization.
Environment, Science and Technology Minister, Sherry Aryittey, said government would step up its monitoring activities to ensure that telecoms companies comply with this directive.
Her comments follow a Joy FM report about some residents of East Legon in Accra who had petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to stop a telecoms company from constructing a mast in the residential area.
The minister told Joy FM’s Kobby Graham, the state would not spare any company which flouts the law.
“We would be forced to apply sanctions,” she emphasized.
The concern by the residents has been fueled largely by fears that telecoms masts emit dangerous rays that are believed to cause cancers and brain tumors.
While medical experts and telecoms operators hold different views on the health implications of mobile phone system and its masts, some analysts believe the possibility of both having long-term adverse effects cannot be ruled out.
Meanwhile in a press statement signed by the Ms Aryittey telecoms investors must complete an environmental assessment registration form and submit it to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The companies are also required to produce a site plan duly signed by a licensed surveyor, block plan, evidence of neighbourhood consultation and a lease agreement.
It said the directive had become necessary because investigations conducted indicated that most mask installations around the country had been done without the necessary permit from the EPA.
Ms Aryittey advised telecoms companies to avoid locating their masts in densely populated areas.
