A major acid spill from a Chinese-owned copper mine in Zambia has contaminated the Kafue River, prompting concern over ecological and public health impacts. The incident began on February 18 when a tailings dam collapsed, releasing 50 million liters of toxic waste. The resultant contamination threatens drinking water for millions and poses agricultural risks, as confirmed by local authorities and environmental advocates.
A significant environmental disaster occurred following the collapse of a tailings dam at the Chambishi copper mine in Zambia, which is predominantly owned by the Chinese state enterprise, China Nonferrous Metals Industry Group. Approximately 50 million liters of hazardous waste, including concentrated acid and heavy metals, have contaminated streams linked to the Kafue River, Zambia’s crucial water resource, as reported by the Associate Press.
Date identified for the incident was February 18, raising widespread concern among local authorities and environmental advocates regarding the long-term repercussions on ecosystems and human health. President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed alarm over the situation, describing it as a crisis that endangers both people and wildlife along the Kafue River.
The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation warned of severe ramifications, including possible groundwater contamination and damage to agriculture in riverbank communities. Local reports verified the environmental impact, with dead fish discovered approximately 100 kilometers downstream from the spill site.
As an essential water source for roughly 60% of Zambia’s population, which includes approximately five million people in the capital, Lusaka, the spill has already necessitated the shutdown of water supplies to the city of Kitwe, affecting around 700,000 residents.
In response to the disaster, the chairman of Sino-Metals Leach Zambia met with government representatives and conveyed his regret regarding the spill. He pledged that the company would prioritize the swift restoration of the impacted environments.
The acid spill from the Chinese-owned copper mine poses a serious environmental threat to both local ecosystems and human populations dependent on the Kafue River. The incident highlights the need for stringent regulatory measures to prevent such disasters while emphasizing the significant health and agricultural risks accompanying industrial negligence. Urgent collective efforts are necessary for environmental restoration and the protection of vulnerable communities.
Original Source: www.mining.com
