Mongabay · Climate & nature

Zambian Vedanta Mine Linked to Continued Pollution

Zambia's government is investigating a chemical spill allegedly caused by Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), owned by Vedanta Resources, in the Copperbelt Province.

Residents reported a discolored Kafue River and fish die-off on September 28, linked by the Minister of Green Economy and Environment to a leaking pipe at KCM's tailings leach plant and an overflow from its pollution control dam. Activists state such discharges occur frequently, with local residents consuming the contaminated water.

Tests by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) and others showed elevated turbidity and conductivity downstream. KCM has contested responsibility, stating they reported the incident and requested an investigation. Water sample tests are ongoing to confirm heavy metal contamination.

Authorities have ordered KCM to assess its pollution control infrastructure for potential risks. Penalties for violations under the Environmental Management Act can reach up to $14,000.

This incident adds to a history of environmental concerns surrounding KCM, including a 2008 pollution case in the U.K. that was settled out of court in 2021 with compensation paid to villagers without admission of liability.

KCM, a major copper producer, is expanding operations as Zambia aims to significantly increase copper output. Vedanta Resources holds an 80% stake in KCM. The Zambian government had previously placed KCM into liquidation in 2019 due to various concerns, including environmental pollution, but operations resumed in 2024.

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