Berea, August 17 — Villagers of Khotsisi, Ha Lephallo have raised concerns over the operations of a stone mine in the area, citing questions surrounding the mining contract, blasting activities and dust pollution.
Chief Seshophe Hlajoane of Khotsisi Halephallo said villagers are questioning how the current Chinese operator came to continue operating the mine.
According to Chief Hlajoane, the original contract was awarded by the council to another individual after what he said were proper procedures. The individual operated the mine for two years before the Chinese operator took over the operations.
He said the contract was for a period of 10 years and ended in December, but the Chinese operator has continued operating the mine this year.
Chief Hlajoane said villagers are also concerned about the impact of blasting on nearby houses, alleging that the blasts have caused cracks in some homes.
He said residents whose houses are affected are allegedly given a bag of cement to repair the cracks.
“Villagers are complaining that the blasting causes cracks in their houses and are given a bag of cement to mend them,” Chief Hlajoane said.
He further raised concerns about the amount of dust generated by the mine, saying villagers consider it excessive and unhealthy.
To address the concerns, Chief Hlajoane said he will convene a gathering involving villagers and relevant stakeholders next week.
The gathering is expected to bring together representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Labour, Roads Directorate, police and other stakeholders to discuss the concerns raised by the community.
Chief Hlajoane said the meeting will provide an opportunity for the concerns of villagers to be heard and addressed by the relevant authorities and stakeholders.
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