Zambia Faces Environmental Crisis from Copper Mine Leak Leading to Severe Pollution

Zambia faces an environmental crisis due to a leak at a copper mine owned by a Chinese company, releasing 50 million liters of acid and heavy metals. This has resulted in crop damage, dead fish, and pollution detected 100 kilometers downstream. Authorities are concerned about the long-term effects on public health and wildlife along the Kafue River, which serves as a crucial water source for millions.

Zambia is currently grappling with a significant environmental crisis resulting from a substantial leak at a copper mine owned by the Chinese state company, Nonferrous Metals Industry Group. Reports indicate that approximately 50 million liters of corrosive waste, comprising acid and heavy metals, have contaminated local waterways, wreaking havoc on agriculture and aquatic life. Crops have been destroyed, and many fish have been found dead, marking the onset of a catastrophic event.

The acid spill has impacted the river system extensively, with pollution detected up to 100 kilometers downstream of the site, raising serious concerns regarding the health of millions of citizens. Environmental and governmental authorities are fearful of the enduring repercussions that may arise from this incident, as the Kafue River is a vital resource for Zambians.

President Hakainde Hichilema has reached out to the Chinese company for assistance, emphasizing the peril that this environmental disaster poses to local communities and wildlife. He highlighted that around five million Zambians rely on the Kafue River for their drinking water, raising alarms about the potential public health crisis.

Local residents express deep concern over the repercussions of the pollution. “Now everything is dead; it is like a completely dead river. It is unbelievable. Overnight, this river died,” remarked Sean Cornelius, a resident near the Kafue River. Environmental activist Chilekwa Mumba also underscored the severity of the situation, labeling it as a real disaster with potentially catastrophic consequences.

In conclusion, Zambia faces a serious environmental disaster following a major leak at a copper mine owned by a Chinese firm. The leak has resulted in the contamination of 50 million liters of toxic waste in local waters, affecting agricultural lands and aquatic life. The situation is dire, with significant implications for public health and the environment, prompting government action and calls for assistance from the mining company.

Original Source: eadaily.com