In a stern warning to illegal miners, authorities have cautioned against engaging in gold panning near highway roads and mining in hazardous areas during the rainy season.
Pelandaba Mpofu, representing the Mberengwa Miners Association, stressed the imperative for miners to prioritize safety, not only for themselves but also for others and the environment, during an interview with Great Dyke News.
Mpofu underscored the association’s proactive approach, implementing measures to halt mining operations during the rainy season to mitigate potential accidents. For those determined to continue work, technical teams are on standby to assess mine safety.
Emphasizing the paramount importance of safety in mining, Mpofu acknowledged the challenging conditions posed by the rainy season. He expressed optimism in avoiding incidents akin to the Penhalonga incident and encouraged the formation of miners’ associations in other communities to promote safety education.
Miners are cautioned against going underground during the rainy season due to heightened safety risks. Heavy rainfall can lead to ground instability, increasing the likelihood of collapses in underground tunnels and shafts. Flooding poses a serious threat to miners, damaging equipment and creating hazardous working conditions. The potential for mudslides and landslides in hilly mining regions can block access routes and hinder rescue efforts. Poor visibility, equipment malfunctions, and challenges in conducting swift rescue operations further contribute to the safety concerns during the rainy season. To mitigate these risks, mining authorities advise miners to temporarily halt underground operations, emphasizing the paramount importance of prioritizing safety during adverse weather conditions.
