In 2017, former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba sounded the alarm about the growing threat of illegal mining to the city’s vital gas and pipeline infrastructure. Despite presenting evidence and sending letters to various governmental departments, his warnings went unanswered, leaving Johannesburg vulnerable to potential disaster. This article delves into Mashaba’s efforts to draw attention to the dangers posed by illegal mining activities, the implications for infrastructure and lives, and the urgent need for action to protect the city’s residents and economy.
Herman Mashaba’s Warnings Ignored:
Mashaba expressed bewilderment over the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s inaction in dealing with illegal mining in Johannesburg. Despite attaching reports from Transnet and Sasol, both of which highlighted the imminent danger posed by zama zama mining activities close to the pipelines and gas lines, his pleas fell on deaf ears. In 2017 and again in 2018, Mashaba sought intervention from multiple state departments, including the provincial government and the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng, but received no response.
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The Risk to People’s Lives, Fuel and Gas Pipeline & Critical Infrastructure:
The illegal miners’ reckless blasting near the Transnet pipelines and Sasol gas lines puts critical infrastructure at risk, endangering the stability of the channels and also the lives of nearby residents. The potential for devastating explosions near highways and fuel supply routes could result in loss of life, significant property damage, and disruption of essential services. Furthermore, the contamination of the water supply poses an additional risk to public health, amplifying the urgency of addressing this issue.
Structural Integrity Impairment:
Mashaba highlighted the long-term consequences of illegal mining activities on Johannesburg’s physical structure. The tremors caused by illegal blasting have already compromised roads, residential areas, and nearby businesses. The pillars supporting decommissioned mines have been weakened, threatening the stability of the pipelines resting above them. The risk of imminent mine collapse further exacerbates the precarious situation, potentially causing extensive damage to the gas and pipeline infrastructure.
Economic Impact:
Beyond the immediate threats to lives and infrastructure, the use of explosives by illegal miners carries severe economic consequences. Johannesburg, as a major economic hub in South Africa, depends heavily on the proper functioning of its gas and pipeline systems. Disruptions to these vital networks could lead to significant downtime, financial losses, and increased expenses for repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, the risk of explosions near industrial areas could have far-reaching implications for businesses and the local economy.
Call for Urgent Action:
Mashaba’s persistent warnings about the dangers of illegal mining activities near Johannesburg’s gas and pipeline infrastructure cannot be ignored any longer. The time for action is now, as the risks posed to public safety, infrastructure stability, and the economy are too great to overlook. Governmental departments must come together to develop a comprehensive plan to combat illegal mining, including increased surveillance, law enforcement efforts, and educational initiatives to discourage illegal activities.
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The threat of illegal mining to Johannesburg’s gas and pipeline infrastructure, as forewarned by former mayor Mashaba, is not to be taken lightly. The lack of action from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and other state departments leaves the city vulnerable to potential disasters that could have far-reaching consequences for its residents and economy. Immediate and decisive steps must be taken to address this issue and ensure the safety and stability of Johannesburg’s critical infrastructure.
What is Illegal Mining?
Illegal mining is when people mine for valuable minerals like gold, diamonds, or other resources without permission from the government or proper safety regulations. Instead of following the rules, these miners often use dangerous methods that can harm both people and the environment.
