Residents of Al-Anan reaffirm their opposition to a Houthi quarry, warning of its environmental and health risks.

Residents of Al-Anan Village Oppose Stone Crusher Project

Residents of Al-Anan village in the Al-Makhader district of Ibb Governorate have expressed their strong opposition to the establishment of a stone crusher linked to a Houthi leader from Amran Governorate. They warn that this project poses significant risks to the local population, agricultural land, grazing areas, and water sources.

Concerns Over Environmental and Health Risks

The villagers assert that Sheikh Muhammad bin Qasim Anan is attempting to finalize an agreement with the crusher’s owner, known as Al-Bashiri, to set up the facility in the Shab Al-Aizqi area. In return, the agreement reportedly offers a share of up to 10% to the local leader.

Residents have raised alarms about the potential for extensive health and environmental damage. They cite concerns over dust and debris generated from stone crushing, persistent noise pollution, and the detrimental effects on crops, trees, and grazing lands. Additionally, they highlight the risks posed by excavation and blasting activities to local water sources and wells.

Impact on Infrastructure and Community Safety

The community also fears that the increased traffic from heavy trucks will deteriorate the roads leading to their villages. They warn that vibrations from blasting could damage nearby homes and structures.

In light of these concerns, residents have called on local sheikhs and community leaders from neighboring areas, including Wadi Zaid, Al-Qiraty, Al-Dahthath, Al-Rakah, Al-Madhabaha, and Al-Kharbat, to intervene urgently. They urge these leaders to halt the crusher’s establishment and cancel the agreement, warning that the damage could worsen and become more challenging to address in the future.

Second Crusher in the Area

The villagers noted that this proposed facility would be the second stone crusher in the region, following the establishment of another crusher owned by a Houthi leader named Abdul Khaliq Boutaj.

Last month, residents organized a protest against the crusher’s establishment, demanding its relocation away from residential areas, agricultural lands, and grazing sites.

Conclusion

The ongoing opposition from the residents of Al-Anan village highlights the critical balance between development and environmental protection. As the community continues to advocate for their rights, the future of the proposed stone crusher remains uncertain.

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