An acid spill at a Chinese-owned mine has contaminated Zambia’s Kafue River, impacting millions dependent on it. Authorities are concerned about long-term effects as pollution extends 100 kilometers downstream. The government is taking emergency measures, including aerial lime applications, to mitigate damage.
An acid spill at a Chinese-owned copper mine has severely contaminated the Kafue River in Zambia, raising significant concerns about public health and the environment. This incident has affected millions of individuals who rely on this vital waterway, as pollution was detected over 100 kilometers downstream. Environmentalists and authorities are particularly alarmed about the potential long-term consequences of this event.
The cause of the contamination can be traced back to the collapse of a tailings dam on February 18, which resulted in nearly 50 million liters of acidic waste, filled with heavy metals, entering the river system. Chilekwa Mumba, an environmental activist from the Copperbelt Province, described the situation as “an environmental disaster really of catastrophic consequences.”
Zambia, noted for being among the top ten copper-producing nations globally, has seen increasing Chinese investment in its mining sector. The Kafue River is crucial for the livelihoods of approximately 60% of Zambia’s population, serving as a source for fishing, agriculture, and industry. It provides drinking water to about five million people, including residents of the capital city, Lusaka.
In response to the crisis, the Zambian government has mobilized the air force to disperse hundreds of tons of lime into the river to neutralize the acidity. Speed boats have also been employed for lime application along the river, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the government’s commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of the disaster.
The contamination of the Kafue River following the acid spill at a Chinese mine highlights a significant environmental crisis with profound implications for public health and local communities in Zambia. The swift governmental response through aerial lime applications reflects the urgency to address the pollution. Continuous monitoring and accountability from mining companies are crucial to prevent such disasters in the future, ensuring the safety of one of Zambia’s most important natural resources.
Original Source: www.indiatvnews.com
