The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in its investigation has exonerated Nixin Paper Mill Ghana Limited on the alleged discharge of untreated wastewater directly into the sea near Winneba in the Central Region.
However, EPA’s laboratory test have shown that, the water turbidity levels at the company’s waste treatment plant is higher than the acceptable standard.
The Agency has therefore warned that, if nothing is done to address the situation, they have no other options than to close down the operations of the company until the necessary corrective measures are done.
Addressing the media at a press conference, the Executive Director of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Hon. Dr. Kwabena Kokofu Esq revealed that, investigation conducted into the alleged allegation by his outfit proved that, there are no secret pipelines into the sea as alleged and that, the Agency is aware of all the piping system in the factory and its environs.
The company which is situated near Winneba accordingly to Hon. Kwabena Kokofu, is on about fifty-six acres (56 acres) land with a production capacity of 40,000 tons per annum, registered under the 1 District 1 factory initiative and commenced business in November 2019.
The company he mentioned, has a valid Environmental Permit which is due to expire on the 14 of November 2024
He further averred that, Nixin Paper Mill Ghana Limited was issued with an environmental permit in November 2019 added that, there were challenges such as power failures during the period of their test runs, resulting in the release of effluent into the environment which impacted the Pratu River and the Muni Pomadze lagoon.
“At that time they were in the process of constructing wastewater treatment facilities at their premises but the pace of construction of the wastewater treatment facilities were hampered by the Covid 19 pandemic restrictions affecting the freight of equipment from China into the country”.
Dr. Kwabena Kokofu disclosed that, Nixin Paper Mill Ghana Limited constructed a pipe from their factory into the sea through which treated effluent could be discharged during the period of the test runs to protect the Muni Pomadze lagoon and the Pratu River.
EPA he stated, then restrained the company to test running of its equipment until the completion of a functional waste treatment system to enable them initiate full production.
“The company installed at its premises, a wastewater treatment facility which is fully functional and manned by a Ghanaian with international expertise and experience in wastewater management”.
The immediate action taken according to Hon. Dr. Kwabena Kokofu Esq include; a Post schedule officer to monitor the activities of the company.
Also, the Agency have deployed online continues (real-time) monitoring systems, and engage the public through effective District Assembly and media.
Hon. Kokofu on behalf of the Agency, assured the general public that the Agency is on top of its mandate and would continue to deliver, by collaborating with relevant stakeholders.
