By Abdullahi Lukman
The Kano State Government has intensified measures to curb illegal silica sand excavation near vital water sources, following rising concerns over threats to the state’s potable water infrastructure.
The state’s Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Alhaji Hamza Kachako, disclosed this during an inspection of excavation sites along River Chalawa in Panshekara, Kumbotso Local Government Area, and Azoren Waje in Kura Local Government Area.
The crackdown follows complaints from the Kano State Water Board, which warned that unchecked sand mining near mechanized boreholes is compromising the efficiency of the Chalawa Water Treatment Plant.
“We will no longer tolerate sand excavation activities that endanger public water installations,” Kachako warned during the tour, which was attended by senior ministry officials.
He recalled a recent intervention at River Wudil where he met with sand vendors to encourage responsible practices through dialogue.
Kachako emphasized the government’s commitment to balancing environmental protection with economic livelihoods, urging vendors to cooperate.
Also speaking during the inspection, Director of the Chalawa Water Treatment Plant, Alhaji Uba Shareef, noted that excavation activities were disrupting borehole functions, posing a serious threat to the delivery of clean drinking water to nearby communities.
The government says it will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure that both natural resources and essential services like water supply are preserved for public benefit.
