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.
