David Coltart has raised concern over the impact of illegal mining activities on the catchment area of uMzingwane Dam, warning that the practices are damaging vital water sources for the city.
The Bulawayo Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor said illegal miners have constructed road embankments that block tributaries feeding into the dam. These actions disrupt the natural flow of water into the reservoir.
Coltart also revealed that miners have drilled boreholes within the dam area, further compromising the integrity of the catchment and reducing water inflows.
According to the mayor, these activities are among the factors contributing to the dam currently being only about 36% full, raising concern over the sustainability of water supplies for Bulawayo.
He warned that continued environmental degradation of the catchment could worsen water shortages and called for stronger measures to protect the dam and its surrounding ecosystem.
