TRAIL OF MUCK: Mining sludge surge triggers power cuts and contamination fears after tailings dam collapse
A tailings dam collapse at Samancor Dikwena has cut access to nearby mine shafts, swept away vehicles, and knocked out Eskom power lines near Brits. Satellite analysis and experts point to delayed rainfall effects and potential structural over-deposition as potential causes.
A tailings dam collapse at Samancor Dikwena triggered power cuts and contamination fears in the Brits area, South Africa. The wall of the Samancor Dikwena Tailings Facility dam gave way on Thursday, 13 August, releasing mining sludge onto the R566 road towards the Eland Mine. Satellite analysis and experts attribute the collapse to delayed rainfall effects and potential structural over-deposition.
The sludge flood disrupted access to the Eland Mine and damaged Eskom infrastructure, leading to power interruptions in Brits and Hennops. Eskom is working with Samancor Dikwena Chrome to restore power, but the process could take several hours due to the muddy and slippery conditions. No official estimate of restoration time has been provided.
Investigations are still ongoing, and some experts believe the failure could be attributed to over-deposition resulting from re-mining activities between 2019 and 2024.
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