News Room

Minister Mantashe concludes Ogies inspections and charts way forward

Date Published: 04 Apr 2019

Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe has concluded his visit to Phola, Ogies in Mpumalanga today, where he, together with officials, conducted inspections in-loco at three mines and engaged with communities on concerns raised about blasting and air pollution caused by mines operating in the area.

 

The two mines about which complaints were raised have not commenced operating, and no blasting has occurred yet.

 

Technical assessments will be undertaken to make a determination on whether cracks have been caused by blasting from mines which are already in operation, or from other activities. Furthermore, the Department will be engaging with the mines to strengthen measures in place for the minimization of dust from mining activities, where mining is already taking place.

 

The Minister has also urged the mines in Ogies to look into long-term development of the area beyond mining.

 

Ends-

Issued by the Department of Mineral Resources

Media statements
blasting and air pollution
Mantashe visits ogies