OPPOSITION Citizens Coalition for change (CCC) lawmaker for Masvingo Urban, Martin Mureri, has petitioned the Masvingo Municipality to address the illegal mining activities at Target Kopje Hill in the city.
Residents have raised alarm over unchecked mining operations in the city, prompting the lawmaker to engage the Masvingo City Council, the mayor, Mines ministry and the Police Officer Commanding Masvingo District.
“Furthermore, the underground mining operations in the vicinity of the water tanks raise significant concerns about the structural integrity of the tanks,” his petition read.
“The vibrations and disturbances caused by the mining activities could potentially damage the tanks, leading to a catastrophic failure and the release of large volumes of water.”
The letter also indicated that the local authority should engage with law enforcement authorities to address the issues of illegal mining in town.
“This scenario could result in devastating floods, causing immense damage to surrounding properties and, most importantly, posing a severe threat to the lives of the people living in the affected areas,” he said.
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“It is imperative that the mining activities at Target Kopje be thoroughly investigated and appropriate measures be taken to ensure the safety and protection of our community.”
Tamari Chirakupe, a Target Kopje resident, said council was failing to stop mining activities in the area.
“What mitigatory measures has the council, especially the Public Works Committee, put in place concerning the threats posed to us the residents and properties as well as council water storage tanks by the continued illegal mining activities by artisanal miners?” Chirakupe asked.
“We have witnessed enormous destruction resulting from such illegal activities, with the recent example being of that primary school in Kwekwe (Globe and Phoenix) which collapsed as a result of illegal mining that was happening underground.”