Zama threat to be probed

The department of mineral resources (DMR) said yesterday that it has initiated a ground stability study in the Johannesburg area with immediate effect.

In a statement, the DMR said the study, which will commence shortly through the Council for Geoscience (CGS), aims to assess whether there is any long-term damage to critical infrastructure installation.

“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,” it said. “The CGS is expected to provide a preliminary report on the matter within two weeks.”

This follows weekend reports that the iconic FNB Stadium and other landmarks were at risk as illegal miners tunnel under the city close to fuel and gas pipes, raising danger of buildings collapsing and deadly explosions.

Joburg mayor Herman Mashaba raised the alarm as far back as February 2017 after he wrote to the then minister of mineral resources, Mosebenzi Zwane, requesting his support and intervention with regard to illegal mining with the use of explosives near highways, Transnet bulk fuel supply and Sasol gas pipelines across the city, especially around the Nasrec precinct where the pipelines intersect.

Back then, Mashaba said the consequences of the illegal use of explosives in decommissioned mines have disastrous consequences for the residents of Johannesburg as it could lead to serious injuries or loss of life.

The DMR also stressed the importance of active participation by all stakeholders in the established Gauteng Illegal Mining Forum.