Environmental Crisis in Zambia: Major Copper Mine Leak Pollutes Kafue River

Zambia is currently experiencing an environmental disaster due to a major leak of 50 million liters of acid and heavy metals from a copper mine operated by a Chinese company. The pollution has affected the Kafue River and threatens the water supply for millions. Environmentalists and the Zambian president are calling for urgent action to address the crisis and its catastrophic consequences.

Zambia currently faces an environmental crisis following a significant leak at a copper mine, operated by a state-controlled Chinese company. This incident has led to the destruction of crops and massive fish fatalities, prompting widespread concern from environmental experts and local authorities regarding its long-term impacts. Pollution has been traced at least 100 kilometers downstream, threatening the health and livelihoods of millions.

Approximately 50 million liters of acid and heavy metal waste were discharged into a stream that subsequently feeds into the Kafue River, Zambia’s primary water source. The repercussions of this leak are dire, as they extend beyond immediate ecological damage, potentially affecting the drinking water supply of about five million Zambians.

Chilekwa Mumba, an environmental activist, characterized the situation as a “real environmental disaster with catastrophic consequences.” In light of the crisis, President Hakainde Hichilema has reached out to the investor company, emphasizing the urgent need to address the leak and safeguard wildlife and communities dependent on the Kafue River. Local resident Sean Cornelius lamented, “Now everything is dead, it’s like a completely dead river. It’s unbelievable. Overnight, this river died.”

The major leak from the copper mine in Zambia represents a stark environmental catastrophe, with grave implications for local ecosystems and human health. The discharge of 50 million liters of hazardous waste signifies an urgent crisis that necessitates immediate attention from both government and corporate stakeholders. As environmental activists and residents highlight the severe consequences of this disaster, it is vital that concerted efforts are made to mitigate the damage and restore the affected areas.

Original Source: eadaily.com