Security Forces to Assist in Pollution Survey
By Chembe Mbale
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has called for a robust response to contain the pollution in the Kafue River caused by the collapse of a tailing dam at Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited in Chambeshi.
Water Development and Sanitation Minister COLLINS NZOVU has disclosed that the President has also ordered an aerial survey, with the assistance of security forces, to aid in the efforts to mitigate the contamination.
He says the aerial survey will provide critical insights into the extent of the pollution, guiding the government’s remediation efforts.
Mr. NZOVU also notes that the effort by Sino metals to contain pollution in the aftermath of the collapsed tailing dam is not enough, hence the need for collaboration.
He said this when he met stakeholders who include Water utilities, security wings among others at Kitwe City Council.
Earlier, Kalulushi District Commissioner KELLY JIBINGA said Preliminary investigations have revealed significant damage to the ecosystem in and along the Kafue River.
He said so far, the disaster has affected 38 farmers, with 99.6 hectares of maize and 14 goats destroyed in Kitwe.
And Water Resources Management –WARMA- Sub Catchment Manager, ALEX KASONDE also called for use of speed boats in the efforts aimed at neutralizing acid among other heavy metals in the Kafue River following the contamination.
