Environmental risks associated with quarry activities and its anthropogenic changes in Weija Hills, Ga South Municipal, Ghana

Quarrying has become an important socio-economic activity in many societies as it provides several services for human well-being. Weija Hills at the Ga South Municipality in Ghana has been witnessing quarrying activities at various sections of the hills causing a series of environmental problems. The study examined the changes that have occurred in the geological structure of the Weija Hills and its environmental hazards. The study employed the mixed method approach following the exploratory sequential research design. The primary data were collected directly from field observation during which much data was gathered including photographs. The Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was used for elevation changes between 2007 and 2014. The Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM) was used for slope stability analysis. The study found that the Weija Hills's local geology is still stable. However, serious environmental problems such as erosion taking place and large quantities of weathered and eroded sediments being carried downslope any time it rains blocking the Mallam-Kasoa Highway making it risky for road users. We recommended that the Minerals Commission and other stakeholders should collaborate and reclaim the land.