-In Zolowee Town, Nimba County
BY Shallon S.Gonlor
In Zolowee Town, Nimba County, a recent explosion at Mount Takadi by world steel giant company ArcelorMittal Liberia has left a trail of destruction, affecting not only homes but also the lives of women and children in the area.
The aftermath of the explosion has resulted in the severe damage of more than ten houses in Zolowee Town, with some structures now deemed unsafe and scheduled for demolition. Residents of the community are facing imminent danger as their homes have been compromised by the impact of the blast.
During a visit to the town, our Nimba County Correspondent witnessed the extent of the damage firsthand, noting the precarious situation faced by the affected residents. Many have raised concerns about the lack of prior warning from ArcelorMittal Liberia regarding the frequent explosions that have been occurring in the area.
Residents have specifically pointed to the latest blast on Tuesday as the most detrimental, causing widespread destruction and prompting fears for the safety of the community. Despite inquiries into the matter, a company spokesperson, Winston Dar-you, has refrained from providing any comments on the issue.
The aftermath of the blast has left debris strewn across the streets, rooftops damaged, and families displaced from their homes. The lack of communication and transparency from ArcelorMittal Liberia regarding their blasting activities has not only led to physical damage but also raised serious health concerns among experts and residents.
The indiscriminate blasting without prior notice has put vulnerable members of the community, such as patients with underlying health conditions, at risk of harm. The distress and uncertainty caused by the incident have galvanized calls for improved safety measures and accountability from the mining company.
As a result of the blast, approximately ten houses have suffered structural damage, leaving several families homeless and in urgent need of assistance. Women and children, in particular, have been disproportionately affected by the blast, with some forced to seek shelter in neighboring homes after being displaced from their own residences.
The devastating impact of the explosion at ArcelorMittal Liberia has not only caused physical damage but has also highlighted the importance of effective communication, safety protocols, and community engagement in industrial activities to prevent such incidents from reoccurring.
Among the victims include vulnerable women and children, and men who are residents of the mine community, Zolowee Town.
