Zim Now Reporter
The Environmental Management Agency has temporarily shut down Ran Mine in Bindura after traces of cyanide were detected in the Chipadze suburb water supply system.
This follows a water spillage from the mine’s slime dam last Thursday, which contaminated local water sources and led to fish deaths in Pote River and Arcadia dams.
EMA’s Provincial Environment and Publicity Officer, Maxwell Mupotsa, confirmed that laboratory tests had been conducted since Thursday, analyzing boreholes and streams near Mushambanhaka, which flow into Pote River.
He explained the findings, stating that the tests detected traces of cyanide in the area, including Chipadze. As a result, the agency ordered the mine to halt operations and focus on addressing the health hazard.
Following these findings, the Bindura Civil Protection Unit met on Wednesday to review the test results and agreed to launch an immediate community awareness campaign.
Environmental Health Officer Fungai Mangwambi advised residents to avoid using water from wells, warning that the underground water system could be contaminated. He urged the community to rely on reticulated water from the council or local authorities, which is considered safer.
Despite these warnings, Chipadze residents expressed mixed reactions. Many were confused after being assured by Ran Mine on Friday that the water was safe, only to now be warned against using it.
One resident voiced concern, stating that the mine had initially claimed the water was safe despite visible signs of contamination, including affected vegetables and trees.
The resident expressed worry about potential health risks, as many had already consumed the water.
Another resident shared their uncertainty, stating that they were unsure what to believe after initially being told the water was safe. Reports of fish deaths, particularly catfish in Pote River, raised further concerns about the water quality.
Authorities, including the Zimbabwe National Water Authority and the Ministry of Health and Child Care, are continuing assessments.
Monitoring efforts and decontamination measures will remain in place until the affected water sources are deemed safe.
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