Geeky News Talks About DWS’s Comprehensive Response to Jagersfontein Tailings Dam Collapse

Surrey, United Kingdom Sep 19, 2023 (Issuewire.com) – Geeky News, a leading platform for technology and lifestyle stories, is pleased to announce the publication of its new article titled “DWS’s Comprehensive Response to Jagersfontein Tailings Dam Collapse.” This informative piece sheds light on the extensive investigation and actions of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) following the devastating tailings storage facility (TSF) failure that occurred on September 11, 2022.

After the incident at the diamond mine in Jagersfontein, South Africa, the DWS began a one-year investigation into the collapse of the TSF to understand its causes and implications. The article highlights the critical developments and actions taken by the department.

Firstly, legal proceedings are being initiated. The DWS has started legal proceedings against the accountable authority, Jagersfontein Developments Pty (Ltd), seeking criminal liability for the disaster. This significant step underscores the department’s commitment to ensuring accountability for the incident.

On 13 September, marking the first anniversary of the incident, the DWS announced its intention to issue a warning statement against the accused party. This precursor to legal action aims to bring the responsible party to justice.

Secondly, DWS ordered the mining company to appoint an Approved Professional Person (APP) to safely empty compartment 2 of the TSF, which still has large quantities of tailings. The APP is also actively involved in decommissioning the entire tailings dam, prioritising the safety and security of the site.

In response to the environmental damage caused by the TSF breach, the DWS has compelled the accused company to restore and rehabilitate affected watercourses, including the Riet River, Wolwas Dam, Kalkfontein Dam, Proses spruit, and Kromellenboog River. Ongoing restoration efforts involve bioremediation and clearing of sludge banks, slopes, and adjacent landscapes.

The Jagersfontein tailings dam collapse serves as a stark reminder of the importance of implementing robust safety measures and continuous microseismic monitoring in the mining industry. The article emphasizes that early detection of geochemical issues or stress through microseismic monitoring can significantly enhance situational awareness and the ability to respond effectively.

To achieve optimal results, mining companies are urged to invest in high-end monitoring solutions like Silixa, as the responsiveness of the system directly impacts the accuracy of extracted geochemical data.

In conclusion, the prevention of tailings dam collapses hinges on vigilant oversight, proactive measures, and unwavering commitment to safety standards. Geeky News invites its readers to explore this thought-provoking article, which delves into the critical steps taken by the DWS to address the Jagersfontein tailings dam collapse and underscores the imperative for safety and responsible mining practices in the industry.

Read the full article on Geeky News to gain valuable insights into this significant event and its implications for the mining sector: https://www.geekynews.co.uk/jagersfontein-tailings-dam-collapse/