Naivasha residents raise alarm over noise, environmental pollution from 'unauthorised' quarry

The residents claim the quarrying activities along the Kedong area off Moi South Lake Road have disrupted businesses and homes, while raising concerns about possible health and environmental risks.

They are calling on the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Nakuru County Government to intervene, amid allegations that the quarry began operations without the necessary approvals.

Longonot DEB Primary School, which has more than 1,000 pupils, is among the institutions located near the quarry.

Business owners in the area claim dust from the quarry has affected their operations, while blasting has caused excessive noise and disrupted activities.

Caroline Wanjiru, a business owner in the area, said several conferences had been cancelled because of the dust and blasting.

She also alleged that there was no public participation or Environmental Impact Assessment before the quarry began operations.

Another business owner, Kang’ethe Thuku, said the quarrying activities were affecting homes, businesses and the nearby school.

“The dust and blasts have not only affected the hotels but nearby homes and a school,” he said.

Andrew Kibuga, a manager at one of the affected businesses, said declining business had led to some workers losing their jobs, which he attributed to the dust pollution.

“We are dealing with food and the dust from the quarry has adversely affected us,” he said.

A senior NEMA officer, who declined to be named, said the quarry was operating illegally and that the matter had been escalated to the authority's headquarters.

The officer said the required procedures had not been followed and that NEMA would issue the investor with a closure notice.