Observation

This question was attempted by many of the candidates and their performance in the question was good. However, some of the candidates performed poorly in the (c) and (d) components of the question. The problems associated with quarrying that were expected from the candidates included:

• creation of large depressions;
• risk of accidents due to the use of explosives e.g. misfires;
• erosion;
• pollution from dust particles;
• deforestation;
• destruction of habitats;
• ground vibration /earth tremors;
• noise pollution;
• land slide;
• discharge of gaseous effluents;
• water pollution.

The ways of solving problems associated with quarrying that should have been highlighted were:

• proper reclamation of quarries;
• proper use of explosives;
• proper storage of explosives;
• effective dust control-wetting of ground with water;
• use of appropriate PPE;
• relocation of settlement;
• use of new technology with low noise level;
• reforestation.