Article

Mining experts highlight environmental risks at the now-derelict Lily gold mine near Barberton, Mpumalanga, which closed in 2016 after a structural collapse trapped three workers whose bodies were never recovered. Lloyd Birrell, CEO of Lions Bay Resources, warned that water accumulation in the mine could lead to flooding, affecting agriculture downstream if it contaminates irrigation canals. He noted that the water could undergo chemical changes, becoming acidic and dissolving harmful metals such as arsenic and nickel, posing risks to the ecosystem.