The Zimbabwe Mining Safety, Health and Environmental Council (ZMSHEC) has called on artisanal and small-scale miners to take precautionary measures during the rainy season to prevent water accumulation in mine shafts and pollution from cyanidation plants.
ZIMSHEC Executive Director Makumba Nyenje said rainfall runoff often accumulates in mining shafts, weakening side rocks and causing ground movement and collapses. He urged miners to ensure that dewatering equipment is in place and that accumulated water is promptly removed.
On cyanidation plants, Nyenje urged miners to clear and maintain storm drains to prevent water accumulation in leaching tanks. He said excess water dilutes cyanide concentration, leading to production losses and chemical runoff that can contaminate nearby water bodies.
He added that miners should have rescue teams ready to respond in case of mishaps or fatalities during the wet season. “Rescue teams should always be ready to assist in the event of a mishap,” Nyenje said. He concluded that mining operations could resume normal activity once the rainy season ends.
