The rehabilitation of previously mined areas in Riverlea has become a subject of concern and public attention. In this regard, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) seeks to clarify the situation and shed light on the efforts made to address the issue.
The Mining Operations and Financial Provisions
Central Rand Gold (Pty) Ltd, the company responsible for mining operations in Riverlea, held an old order mining right that was converted according to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA, 2002). As required by Section 41 of the MRPDA, the company made financial provisions amounting to R44,774,902.01 through bank guarantees from Guard Risk Insurance, ensuring funds are available to rehabilitate and manage the environmental impacts of their operations.
Transfer of Responsibility for Rehabilitation
Central Rand Gold (Pty) Ltd has since undergone liquidation, and the responsibility for rehabilitation (Duty of Care) has been transferred to the appointed Liquidators. In turn, the Liquidators granted Amatshe Mining (Pty) Ltd the right to use the land in question, imposing the Duty of Care obligations on the new company through a Section 28 directive. Amatshe Mining (Pty) Ltd was therefore responsible for rehabilitating the land previously mined by Central Rand Gold (Pty) Ltd for a 12-month period.
Challenges to Rehabilitation Efforts
In March 2021, Amatshe Mining (Pty) Ltd sought permission from the landowner, iProp, to access the land and conduct rehabilitation works in accordance with the S.28 directive. Unfortunately, iProp denied Amatshe Mining (Pty) Ltd access to the land, resulting in a deadlock and hindering the planned rehabilitation efforts.
Rehabilitation Work by DMRE
Despite these challenges, the DMRE successfully carried out rehabilitation work as part of its Derelict and Ownerless Mine Rehabilitation Programme between 2019 and 2021. During this time, 34 shafts were sealed. The DMRE has also committed an estimated R75,000.00 per shaft to rehabilitate at least 24 additional shafts in Riverlea and Zamampilo in the current financial year. Funding for this initiative will be drawn from the financial provisions made by Central Rand Gold (Pty) Ltd.
Commitment to Environmental Protection
The DMRE is committed to ensuring strict enforcement and compliance with mining industry laws and regulations. Its commitment to rehabilitating previously mined areas, including Riverlea, demonstrates the importance placed on addressing the environmental impacts of mining operations.
Collaboration and Potential for Positive Change
The process of rehabilitating mined areas is complex and requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, mining companies, landowners, and the affected community. Through continued dialogue and commitment to addressing the environmental consequences of mining, all parties can work together to heal the land and minimize future impacts.
While setbacks and obstacles may arise, the progress and plans for rehabilitating Riverlea’s mined areas highlight the potential for restoration and environmental recovery. The DMRE’s ongoing commitment to addressing these concerns demonstrates the importance placed on safeguarding the environment and ensuring responsible mining practices for the benefit of present and future generations.
