Opinion | Editorials
Moving mountains
The closing and relocation of quarries in the northern emirates is welcome.
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:32 August 19, 2008
Yesterday was a good day for all residents of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Why? Because the Federal Environmental Agency (FEA) in Abu Dhabi has decided all quarries across the northern emirates will be closed and relocated.
Hamad Al Matroushi, environmental impact assessment officer at the FEA, says the new quarry locations have not been decided as environmental impact assessments must be carried out.
Already this week, three quarries in Fujairah have been shut down. New quarries, as well as meeting environmental assessment requirements, will also be registered as industrial areas, and should be away from residential areas.
Dr Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd, the Minister of Environment and Water, also acted to shut down quarries with antiquated equipment.
The onus now needs to be on ensuring new quarries meet strict environmental standards, adhere to health and safety rules, are properly monitored, and don't cause undue distress to local residents.
More from Editorials
More from Opinions
Opinion Editor's choice
-
Syrian crisis and rumblings of a cold war
By Patrick Seale, Special to Gulf News
With their vetoes, Russia and China are saying they too have interests in the Middle East, which they are bent on protecting
-
Motives for a new regional alignment
By Marwan Kabalan, Special to Gulf News
The relationship between Iraq and Syria strengthened following the breakout of the uprising and withdrawal of US troops
-
Learning Arabic must not be seen as a compulsion
By Rabia Alavi, Special to Gulf News
Expatriates must see its inclusion in school curriculum as an invitation to integrate into Emirati society and an opportunity to access markets presently reserved for Emiratis
Your turn
