Overview
Glubay Coal (Pty) Ltd, part of Canyon Resources, proposes the Springfield and Vlakfontein Coal Mining Projects, both opencast collieries. The Springfield Project spans 2,547 hectares near Meyerton and Vereeniging, with 1,300 hectares affected by mining. The Vlakfontein Project covers 110 hectares with 10 hectares impacted. The Springfield Project holds 266 million tonnes of coal, while Vlakfontein has 31.3 million tonnes.
Production and Infrastructure
Springfield Project: Initial production at 100,000 tons per month, increasing to 600,000 tons monthly. The life of mine (LOM) is 31 years. The coal will be transported via Redan Siding, requiring new infrastructure, including haul roads and a geotechnical investigation for a new rail bridge.
Vlakfontein Project: Production starts at 50,000 tons monthly, doubling to 100,000 tons, with a 26-year LOM. Coal will be conveyed to Springfield for processing and transported from Redan Siding.
Water and Environmental Management
Water sources include boreholes, groundwater inflow, and pollution control dams. Potable water comes from boreholes. Process water is from pollution control dams. Coal processing involves crushing, washing, and conveying to stockpiles before distribution.
Environmental Concerns
– Wetland Destruction: 56% of natural landscapes lost to development. Grasslands and water resources are at risk.
– Sludge Dams: Proximity to residential areas poses pollution risks.
– Groundwater Impact: Mining lowers water tables, affecting local boreholes.
– Air Quality: Located in Vaal Triangle Airshed Priority Area, further worsening already high pollution levels.
– Noise Pollution: Impacts local institutions reliant on a quiet environment.
– Sinkholes: Over-extraction of water risks creating more sinkholes in the dolomitic area.
Social and Economic Impact
– Employment: Springfield to employ 300, Vlakfontein 250, with only 50% local hires. Farm job losses anticipated.
– Property Devaluation: Local properties may depreciate, harming residents’ investments.
– Flawed Public Participation: Local communities feel excluded from consultation processes.
– Proximity to Sensitive Institutions: Noise and vibrations from blasting could affect nearby schools and health centers.
Conclusion
Despite progressive legislation, enforcement is weak, favouring mining interests. The community argues for the preservation of agricultural land, wetlands, and heritage sites. They emphasize the importance of maintaining air quality and protecting vulnerable communities. The community is prepared to oppose the mine to prioritize people over profit.
The public must comment by 12 July, objections to be sent to Zitholele Consulting (Pty) Ltd
Cell: 076 677 1235 | E-mail: glubay.ppp@zitholele.co.za
Link to public documents www.zitholele.co.za/environmental(Under “Springfield Mining Right and Redan Siding Application” heading)
Article forwarded from the Coal-ition Committee Against Open Cast Coal Mining in Springfield and Vlakfontein.
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Contact Yusuf Sather of the Committee at +27 82 450 4729
