Acid Spill from Copper Mine Threatens Zambia’s Kafue River and Communities
A catastrophic acid spill from the Chambishi copper mine contaminated the Kafue River in Zambia, affecting local water supplies and ecosystems. Approximately 50 million liters of toxic waste were released due to a tailings dam collapse on February 18, alarming authorities and prompting claims of environmental restoration from the mine’s chairman.
A significant incident occurred at the Chambishi copper mine in Zambia, wherein approximately 50 million liters of toxic waste, comprising concentrated acid, heavy metals, and dissolved solids, contaminated the Kafue River—a crucial waterway for the nation. This spill was instigated by the collapse of the tailings dam on February 18, operated by Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, which is predominantly owned by the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Group.
Authorities, including President Hakainde Hichilema, have raised concerns regarding the spill’s potential long-term effects on both human populations and local wildlife. The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation has warned about its “devastating consequences,” especially regarding groundwater contamination and harm to agriculture within the river’s vicinity.
Investigations revealed that the aftermath of the spill has already led to the death of fish discovered near the riverbanks roughly 100 kilometers downstream from the spill site. About 60% of Zambia’s population resides in the Kafue River basin, with approximately five million people relying on it for drinking water, including residents of Lusaka, the capital. The incident has caused a shutdown of the water supply to Kitwe, affecting around 700,000 citizens.
In response to the crisis, the chairman of Sino-Metals Leach Zambia met with Zambian officials, expressing regret for the incident. He pledged swift action towards environmental restoration, stating the company will “go all out to restore the affected environment as quickly as possible.”
The acid spill at Chambishi copper mine underscores the severe environmental hazards associated with mining operations. The long-term implications for the Kafue River and the millions dependent on its waters present a pressing concern. The company’s commitment to restoration will be closely monitored as efforts to mitigate the environmental damage continue.
Original Source: www.mining.com
