Dear Editor,
I must commend the effort by the government, most especially Minister Robert Persaud and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) for imposing a temporary halt on the granting of new licences for river mining. Although this act is commendable, it is woefully inadequate and cannot preserve the river and ecological systems in the affected areas. Given the mining methods used by miners and their insatiable appetite for gold, the time has come for river mining to be outlawed in Guyana, since it has contributed to environmental degradation. Seemingly, our miners are least concerned about the negative impact of their operations.
About a decade ago Major General (rtd) Joseph Singh reported on the state of the Konawaruk River; since then no discernable effort has been made to preserve our environment. Ostensibly, the objective is to generate immediate wealth, rather than engage in sustainable development. Today many other river systems are dying. The entire Wenamu River is heavily polluted from river mining and the discharge of effluent from land dredges. Additionally, mining is done on the eastern bank of the river and this has progressively altered the river course. Moreover, the Wenamu River forms part of the border between Guyana and Venezuela; therefore, mining should be restricted.
Undoubtedly, the techniques used by small and medium-scale miners have significantly contributed to sedimentation in the Wenamu River, the Cuyuni River from Ankoko Island to the Kopang River and many tributaries of the Cuyuni River. This problem is not only unique to the Cuyuni district, but to other areas as well. During a visit to Eteringbang in April 2012 I was surprised to discover that it was no longer possible to consume the river water. Furthermore, residents and miners reported that the fish stock had depleted.
I was shocked beyond measure to learn that some miners do not adhere to the minimum standard when using mercury. Indubitably, mercury has now contaminated our pristine rainforest and may be found in the bodies of miners.
Given the aforementioned, every effort must be made to properly regulate small and medium-scale gold mining. We cannot allow the current situation to continue since the cost is too great to bear. Those who are engaged in mining ought to ensure that their activities do not compromise the environment. Let’s preserve our rainforest for future generations.
Yours faithfully,
Lelon A Saul
Lieutenant Colonel
