Study to assess illegal mining in Johannesburg

The Department of Mineral Resources has initiated a ground stability study to be undertaken in Johannesburg to assess whether there is any long-term damage to critical infrastructure installation as a result of illegal mining activities. The study, which will is due to commence shortly, will be carried out through the department’s entity, the Council for Geoscience (CGS).

 

“While there is no immediate threat to critical infrastructure as has been claimed, government wants to confirm this assertion scientifically, and proactively deal with this matter not only in Johannesburg, but in other areas where illegal mining occurs,” said the department. This after media reports emerged at the weekend stating that experts have sounded the alarm bell that illegal miners are blasting near highly flammable gas and fuel lines in the Johannesburg area.

 

The CGS is expected to provide a preliminary report on the matter within two weeks.

 

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