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Two aerial images released by South African authorities depict the aftermath of the tailings storage facility failure at the Semancor Dikwena Chrome Mine on August 13, 2026. The first image showcases the tailings storage facility (TSF) itself, illustrating the loss of slimes. The second image highlights the breach within the facility.
The TSF appears to have been raised above those on either side, suggesting a complex history with a raised eastern end, which failed, showing minimal human activity. The western end of the site continues to have ongoing activities. By July 2025, the facility had been raised and divided, with active deposition occurring in both sections. The section that failed, known as 1b, was notably higher than the western section.
Samancor has acknowledged full responsibility for repairing any infrastructure and rehabilitating the affected area, despite the mining industry's poor track record in fulfilling such commitments.
Written by urgent.news from Eos's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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