Scientist urges immediate clean-up of hazardous mine dumps in Krugersdorp

2-minute read
09 July 2024 | 10:29 CAT

Acid mine water. Photo/ University of Pretoria

Researchers at the University of Pretoria (UP) have made an immediate plea for the removal of hazardous mine dumps in Krugersdorp.

Dr Alseno Mosai, a Water Remediation Specialist from the Department of Chemistry at the UP, warns that children in Krugersdorp are inhaling uranium, arsenic, and mercury fumes from old mines in the area. Additionally, contaminants are infiltrating the underground water sources and nearby reservoirs and ponds.

He warns that if not addressed immediately, the consequences of abandoned mines will persist, and the repercussions will be significantly worse. Dr. Mosai explains that the government will require significant funds to purify the water to meet household standards.

Dr Mosai stated that the government must finance acid mine drainage (AMD) clean-ups to safeguard citizens’ rights to a healthy environment and clean water, as the mining companies causing pollution are frequently absent.

He mentions that numerous technologies for cleaning up AMD are available. “According to him, some may be pricier or less costly, but their effectiveness also varies in different local settings.”

Several research studies support Dr Mosai’s claim that residents living near legacy mines in Krugersdorp experience serious health issues like asthma.

Dr Mosai clarifies that people living far from mine dumps can still be impacted by the toxins as they can spread through both the air and water.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Dr Alseno Mosai here.

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