Zambia Faces Environmental Crisis Following Major Copper Mine Leak

Zambia is experiencing an environmental disaster following a leak of 50 million liters of acid and heavy metals from a copper mine operated by a Chinese firm. The leak has contaminated the Kafue River, affecting agriculture and public health for millions of residents. Environmentalists and local authorities are calling for urgent action in response to the catastrophic situation.

Zambia is currently grappling with a significant environmental crisis following a substantial leak at a copper mine operated by a Chinese company. According to reports from Gazeta.Pl, the incident has led to widespread agricultural damage and has resulted in the death of fish in the area. Environmentalists and local authorities are expressing concerns over the long-term repercussions of the acid leak, which has contaminated a river stretching at least 100 kilometers downstream and poses a serious threat to millions of residents.

The incident resulted in approximately 50 million liters of hazardous waste, characterized by acid and heavy metals, being released into the waterways. This waste initially entered a stream that eventually flows into Zambia’s primary water source, the Kafue River. Notably, this pollution event has raised alarms about its catastrophic implications for the environment and local communities.

Chilekwa Mumba, an environmental activist in Zambia, remarked on the seriousness of the situation by stating, “This is a real environmental disaster with catastrophic consequences.” In response to the crisis, President Hakainde Hichilema has urgently reached out to the mining company for assistance, emphasizing that the leak endangers both the population and the wildlife dependent on the Kafue River for survival. With approximately 5 million Zambians relying on this river for drinking water, the incident threatens public health.

Local resident Sean Cornelius expressed his dismay at the river’s condition, saying, “Now everything is dead, it’s like a completely dead river. It’s unbelievable. Overnight, this river died.” The sentiments of both community members and environmental advocates highlight the severity of this environmental disaster in Zambia and the need for immediate remedial actions.

In summary, Zambia faces a critical environmental disaster stemming from a significant acid leak at a Chinese-run mine, which has led to catastrophic consequences for local ecosystems and communities. The contamination of the Kafue River endangers millions of individuals who depend on it for drinking water. Urgent action from both the government and the mining company is essential to prevent further damage and to address the immediate health risks to the population.

Original Source: eadaily.com