Residents say no to mining in Roodepoort

A mining company has applied for a 30-year mining rights licence in Roodepoort from the Department of Minerals.

Holding the microphone is Ward 84 Councillor Gert Niemand at the anti-mining meeting. Photo: Lungi Ndimande.

The community of Roodepoort are standing together as they oppose the West Wits Mining Company’s application, Roodepoort Record reports.

The mining company has applied to get a 30-year mining rights licence in Roodepoort from the Department of Minerals.

The mining is proposed to operate in parts of Florida Park, Hamberg, Georginia, Creswell Park, Roodepoort CBD, Matholesville and Witpoortjie.

Map showing where the mining will take place. Photo: Lungi Ndimande.

The company’s intention is to construct a open cast mine. Should the Department of Minerals grant them the approval, they will be mining gold, silver, sandstone and aggregate.

Community members say that the mining company is a financially driven project and the residents have a lot more at stake, including social and economic disruption, pollution, and the health of both humans and animals.

To take part in the petition opposing the development, visit http://www.georginiasrf.co.za, or use the following link: https://www.gopetition.com/petitions/cfgh-residents-petition-against-open-cast-mining-by-west-wits-mining-mlb-pty-ltd.html