Since the commencement under unclear circumstances of coal exploration by several mining companies in this wildlife rich area, there has been an outcry from environmentalists, wildlife conservationists and the local communities following an in increase in cases of environmental degradation and water pollution.
Some of the companies have been accused of mining near boreholes and drinking water pans for wild animals, raising strong fears that the water bodies might be contaminated.
Lukosi and Deka rivers are said to be the most affected by the mining activities.
“An environmental disaster is looming in areas where these mining exploration firms are operating. We suspect these companies are operating without waste management plans. Most of the rivers in the area have been polluted .Last week we convened an urgent stakeholders meeting to discuss the issue,” said Langton Masunda, the chairperson of the Gwayi/Shangani Catchment area.
Masunda’s sentiments were also echoed by Chief Dingani Nelukoba, who called for the regulation of mining activities in the area.
“There are no more fish in Deka river and at the same time trees are vanishing every day. The mining companies are now many – and they are causing a lot of damage,” said the chief.
A wildlife conservationist in Gwayi, Watson Hugg, said the companies should be stopped from carrying out any activities because they are emitting hazardous substances which he said had the potential to contaminate water bodies.
“The solution is simple. Its either we let Hwange National Park and surrounding wildlife conservancies die or we carry on with these unfriendly environmental mining activities,” said Hugg.
An official of a Chinese company which is mining coal in the area, Cheng Hugno denied that his company was polluting rivers in the area.
“We are managing our waste materials properly. Maybe your are talking of other companies not us,” he said in a telephone interview.
Despite concerns from environmentalists and local communities, Mines and Mining Development minister, Obert Mpofu, is adamant that the new coal mines are a major milestone for the region’s growth.
Post published in: Environment