Cement firm calls for factory re-opening

By NGUMBAO KITHI

The management of Athi River Mining has appealed to the National Environment Management Authority (Nema) to re-open its factory at Kaloleni in Kilifi County, saying they have met all the conditions the environmental body set.

The Managing Director, Pradeed Paunrana, said they had fulfilled the nine demands set by Nema.

"We are in fully compliance with the Nema order and should be allowed to operate," he said.

Mr Paunrana said all land deals at the plant were transparent and landowners have said in writing to Athi River Mining that there are no issues with the company on land acquisition.

Safety

He said there is no hooting at night except for safety reasons and to prevent accidents.

The managing director said all trucks have vertical exhausts as demanded by Nema. He added that the factory has a public road that it maintains.

"As a good corporate citizen Athi River Mining grades and maintains this road, keeping it in good condition for all kinds of traffic," he said.

According to the managing director, Athi River Mining now has a 20,000-litre water tanker continuously sprinkling water on the road.

He said the company feels that the quantity of water was more important than the number of tankers.

Nema had demanded that two browsers be used to sprinkle water on the road.

He said the quarry operations are being continuously monitored for noise and vibrations as per standards demanded.

"Community around the quarry operations have confirmed they have no problems with Athi River Mining operations," he said.

He said the Athi River Mining has parking space inside and outside the company — 5,210 square metres of paved premises inside the plant.

Conditions

Among the conditions issued by Nema was that the company should provide parking lots.

They were also to ensure the road to the quarry is paved with cabro blocks.

All quarry operations were also required to stop at 6pm.

Nema had ordered the factory shut due to what it said was failing to control emissions threatening the health of workers and the community.