RESIDENTS of Pumula North suburb in Bulawayo have approached the Environmental Management Agency (Ema) complaining over a Chinese quarry mining firm discharging noxious fumes and dust into the atmosphere.
The residents are accusing the Chinese miner, Haulin Quarry Mine, of contaminating the environment and damaging their homes, which are developing cracks due to blasting activities at the quarry.
The miner, who began operations in 2021, has since been locked in a stand-off with residents over the issue.
Ema provincial spokesperson for Bulawayo, Memory Kapumha, confirmed that the agency had received complaints about Hualin Quarry from ward 17 residents.
“A point to note for the public is the environmental impact assessment certificate for Hualin Quarry Mine has not yet been renewed pending investigations of the issues raised by residents,” Kapumha said.
She said the agency was consulting all relevant stakeholders on the complaints.
“Blasting is the responsibility of the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development because they are the major stakeholder in the engagement process. We are awaiting their feedback on the status of blasting and its effects on the surroundings of Hualin Quarry Mine,” she said.
Haulin Quarry Mining Company was given the nod to set up the quarry by the Bulawayo City Council in 2021.
The parties agreed that the mining activities should comply with the Mines and Minerals Act as well as the Environmental Management Act requirements and other council by-laws.
“We encourage Hualin Quarry Mine to work with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to mitigate the impacts of their operations,” Kapumha said.
Officials at Hualin could not be reached for comment on the matter. – (Newsday)
