Management of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a statement to the general public, bringing to their notice, an environmental incident that has occurred at the Beposo Tailings Storage Facility (BTSF) of AngloGold Ashanti Iduapreim Limited. The incident is said to have occurred on February 17th at around 11 a.m.
According to the Agency, supernatant water (processed water) seeped from the Western Embarkment of the BTSF into the surrounding water bodies downstream. It flowed from the toe of the BTSF into Awoneaben stream diversion channel which discharges into the Ahumabru stream, Bonsa river and finally into the Ankobra river.
Supernatant removes cells and debris, leaving behind a clear solution.
The agency has revealed that an estimated volume of 80,000-meter cubes of the supernatant water was released over the area. This volume is estimated to be excessive and water containing such a volume could be harmful when consumed.
They highlighted that the company, after the incident, activated its emergency response procedure by informing the relevant regulatory bodies and the communities that are likely to be affected.
Additionally, the Ahumabru stream which is already contaminated by illegal mining activities has become more harmful to human use after the incident of the supernatant water, says the agency.
While assuring that the agency has already made a visit to the site to assess the damage, they revealed that an assessment made on the day of the incident, showed high levels of cyanide in the receiving stream.
Meanwhile, the Agency is conducting a comprehensive assessment and investigation into the cause of the incident, and also assessing the water quality, sediment and aquatic fauna to understand the extent of the impact of the seep on the downstream environment.
The Environmental Protection Agency has however, cautioned the general public to refrain from direct interaction and usage of the stream until further notice. They have also assured that any further information and development on the incident, will be communicated to the general public in due course.
In the meantime, residents have been advised to avoid consuming or engaging with water from the affected streams.
Source: Dehotpress
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