Zambia is facing an environmental crisis due to a leak from a copper mine controlled by a Chinese company. The leakage, involving around 50 million liters of acid and heavy metals, has severely impacted the Kafue River, threatening the health of millions of Zambians who rely on it for water. Local activists and the president are calling for immediate action to address the disaster.
Zambia is currently grappling with a severe environmental crisis following a significant leak at a copper mine, which is primarily operated by the Chinese company Nonferrous Metals Industry Group. This incident has resulted in extensive damage to agriculture and led to the death of aquatic life in the Kafue River.
The leak, which released approximately 50 million liters of waste containing acid and heavy metals, has compromised water quality for at least 100 kilometers downstream. Local authorities and environmentalists are deeply concerned about the long-term ramifications that this pollution could impose on millions of residents who rely on the river for sustenance.
Environmental activist Chilekwa Mumba described the situation as an “environmental disaster with catastrophic consequences.” In response, President Hakainde Hichilema has contacted the mining company, stressing that the toxicity of the leak endangers both the populace and local wildlife. He emphasized that roughly 5 million Zambians depend on the Kafue River for their drinking water.
The urgent situation has led local residents such as Sean Cornelius to express their despair, stating, “Now everything is dead, it’s like a completely dead river. It’s unbelievable. Overnight, this river died.” The circumstances indicate a pressing need for immediate remedial action and accountability from the involved parties.
The acid leak at the Zambian copper mine has resulted in a grave environmental disaster. With 50 million liters of toxic waste affecting the Kafue River, the repercussions may extend far beyond immediate damage to the ecosystem, threatening the health and livelihoods of millions. Urgent cooperation between the Zambian government and the responsible company is crucial to mitigate these catastrophic effects and restore the river’s health.
Original Source: eadaily.com
