UPDATE: DMR acknowledges possible coal mine
The City Times urged the DMR to be more transparent.
The Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) has confirmed they received an application for a prospecting mining right.
READ:
The City Times submitted a list of questions after Benonians expressed worry about a coal mine in the area.
According to Bheka Masinga Global, it plans to mine coal at a site 15.26km north-east of Kempton Park, 22km south-east of Delmas and two kilometres south-west of Bapsfontein.
“The application is for prospecting and not mining at this stage. Prospecting is simply defined as searching for a mineral resource,” said the DMR.
The department said if the company obtains positive results, it proceeds by applying for a mining right.
“On the other hand, some prospecting right holders undertake to prospect, obtain unfavourable results and do not continue, by law, to the mining right application.”
The DMR confirmed Bheka Masinga Global is intending to mine for coal, should the company find large coal deposits.
When asked what the DMR will do to ensure mining will be done responsibly, it replied: “The DMR is obligated by law to ascertain that current and future mining practices do not cause irreversible and detrimental impacts to the environment.
“The DMR is simply obligated to ensure sustainable development in all upcoming and current mining operations by monitoring and enforcing compliance.”
It did not explain what steps will be taken to monitor and enforce compliance.
The City Times resent questions, urging the DMR to answer the questions in more detail and with due transparency.
ALSO READ:
Benoni coal mine depicted in post-apocalyptic environment
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
