A major environmental disaster has struck Zambia due to a massive leak from a copper mine owned by the Chinese company Nonferrous Metals Industry Group. Approximately 50 million liters of acidic waste have contaminated the Kafue River, threatening human lives and ecosystems. Local officials and activists warn of the dire long-term consequences of this pollution.
Zambia is currently grappling with a significant environmental crisis following a catastrophic leak at a copper mine primarily owned by the Chinese company Nonferrous Metals Industry Group. The leak, which released approximately 50 million liters of acidic waste containing heavy metals, has already devastated local crops and resulted in widespread fish mortality. The contamination has impacted the river system, with detrimental effects reported up to 100 kilometers downstream, threatening the region’s biodiversity and human populations.
The Kafue River, a vital waterway for about 5 million Zambians, has suffered severe pollution due to this incident. Environmentalists and government officials are alarmed by potential long-term damage as the pollution could affect the health and livelihoods of millions. In light of this situation, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has reached out to the mining company for assistance in addressing the crisis. Citizens, such as Sean Cornelius, express deep concern about the devastation, noting, “Now everything is dead, it’s like a completely dead river. It’s unbelievable. Overnight, this river died.”
The copper mine leak in Zambia represents a serious environmental disaster with immediate and long-term consequences for both the ecosystem and human populations reliant on the Kafue River. Urgent action and cooperation between government authorities and the mining company are necessary to mitigate the effects of the pollution and restore the region’s vital water resources. The situation underscores the importance of accountability and proactive environmental management in mining operations.
Original Source: eadaily.com
