By Tamara Muswala
A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment report on the Sino Metals pollution on the Copperbelt has revealed that the PH level in surface water in affected rivers is back to normal.
According to the consultant, Applied Science and Technology Associates of Kalulushi, tests conducted on water from the boreholes in Chambishi also show that the water is safe.
Applied Science and Technology Associates environmental expert TITUS HAAKONDE, however, said high levels of heavy metals such as manganese, cobalt and many others are still being detected upstream of the Chambishi Stream and Mwambashi Rivers in Kalulushi.
Dr. HAAKONDE was speaking during a public disclosure meeting held at MUKUBA Secondary school in Kitwe.
And an agronomist DINA MAMBWE has recommended for the immediate relocation of the Kalusale community with an allowance to help them settle in a new place.
Meanwhile, SINO METALS has acknowledged that the consultant’s investigation report into last year’s acid pollution incident accurately reflects what occurred.
The company has assured stakeholders that it will implement the recommendations contained in the report and comply with all issued directives.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer SYDNEY CHILEYA says the report, compiled by an appointed consultant following the collapse of a tailings dam at the mine, provides a factual account of events on the ground.
Mr. CHILEYA told ZNBC News that all future actions by SINO METALS will be guided by the findings of the report.
Meanwhile, various stakeholders have welcomed the SINO METALS report, describing it as comprehensive.
Green Initiatives Zambia Chief Executive Officer JONAS KUNDA said the report offers reassurance, as it clearly identifies the areas most affected by the incident.
Zambia Institute of Environmental Management –ZIEM- representative EVANS NSOKOLO also said the organisation appreciates the depth of the research, particularly on issues many believed would not be disclosed.
