Quarry closures after dust at homes

AJMAN // Two quarries have been shut down, in Fujairah and Ajman, for breaching health and safety regulations.

The Ministry of Environment and Water’s inspections revealed irregularities, including heavy spread of dust which was said to be affecting the health and safety of nearby residents.

Inspectors also found a “lack of commitment” to cover the main feeder at both quarries, belts conveying uncovered materials and the absence of rubber curtains to prevent dust from spreading.

The ministry carries out both scheduled and random visits to quarries to evaluate compliance with federal environmental laws and regulations. Last month, it ordered the closure of another quarrying facility in Fujairah for breaching regulations.

Saif Al Shara, assistant undersecretary for the ministry’s external audit sector, reminded operators to adhere to legislation to avoid closure.

The ministry conducts workshops on adherence to regulations. It also plans to launch periodic field audit programmes, coordinating with local authorities in training on how to carry out inspections and to implement control measures in quarries and cement factories.

In May, the ministry said it would deploy drones to monitor quarries and stone crushers, to ensure compliance.