Authorities in Chad have ordered the suspension of operations at four aggregate quarries in Hadjer Lamis province after inspectors uncovered widespread breaches of safety and compliance standards.
The Secretary of State for Petroleum, Mines and Geology, Khadidja Hassane Abdoulaye, announced the decision following an inspection tour of the sites. She cited “serious shortcomings” that posed risks to both workers and the surrounding environment.
According to the ministry, the inspection revealed multiple violations, including failure to comply with regulatory standards, administrative and technical deficiencies, and major lapses in worker and site safety.
As a result, operations were immediately halted at quarries run by S3C, Solvet Chad, CGCOC, and the Société de Coopération pour la Construction et le Commerce (SCCC). The companies will only be permitted to resume activities once they meet the requirements of national mining legislation.
Another operator, AL-Abbassi Carrière, was issued a warning but allowed to continue working under strict monitoring.
Officials said the measures reflect the government’s determination to enforce responsible mining practices that protect communities and the environment, while ensuring companies operate within the law.
“The suspension is a clear signal that safety and compliance cannot be compromised,” Ms Abdoulaye said.
The closures come as Chad continues to tighten oversight of its extractive industries, with regulators seeking to balance economic growth with environmental safeguards and worker protections.
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