Authorities have issued a stop order on the construction of a cell tower in Rosetta district, St D’Acre, near Alexandria, St Ann, following strong opposition from residents in the community.

According to Travon Clayton, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the St Ann Municipal Corporation, a telecommunications company had submitted an application to build the tower, but no permit had been approved for work to begin.

After conducting inspections, the Municipal Corporation halted the project pending the submission of proper documentation and the completion of community consultations.

Residents have expressed frustration and concern, claiming that no effort was made to inform or engage them about the proposed development. Some reported that excavation work had already started despite the lack of official approval.

One resident, 89-year-old Eslyn Harris, said she was startled one morning to find a man in her yard claiming he was there to map the area for the cell tower. She expressed fear about potential health risks, citing worries that the tower’s proximity could expose residents to harmful radiation.

The Municipal Corporation has confirmed that the project remains suspended until all regulatory and community requirements are satisfied.