Athi River calls for Kaloleni reopening, Kenya

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.

According to reports by the Standard, Athi River 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.

He said that all trucks have vertical exhausts as demanded by Nema. He added that the factory has a public road that it maintains. The plant now has a 20,000-litre water tanker continuously sprinkling water on the road and 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.