Proposed mine near the Vaal Dam raises concern
Landowners and councillors believe the mining project near Deneysville could threaten the environment and water resources.
MIDVAAL — A new application for a prospecting right on the farms Vischgat 467 and Zoekfontein 468 near Deneysville has drawn the attention of landowners and councillors.
The application was submitted by Mollo Business Consultants (Pty) Ltd, which intends to prospect for coal, gold, nickel, lead, uranium, platinum group metals, and sand. The proposed area, covering approximately 5 745 hectares, apparently falls within both the Midvaal Local Municipality and the Sedibeng District Municipality.
According to documents from Beyond Green Environmental Services (BGES), acting as the environmental consultant, the project will take place in phases over a period of two to three years.
It will include surface testing, geological surveys, and drilling.
The site is located about 5km north of Deneysville and near the Panfontein Colliery — a controversial mining project that has already faced strong opposition following objections from landowners, Rand Water, Sasol, and communities along the Vaal River.
Dalene Venter, councillor for Ward 1 of the Emfuleni Local Municipality, said she only recently became aware of the new project. She warned that the proposed plan raises serious questions about the protection of water sources and the local environment, and emphasised that proper consultation with residents is essential before such mining plans can be approved.
A biodiversity report by BGES, released in September 2025, indicates that large portions of the farms fall within critical biodiversity areas, with wetlands and fauna habitats along the Vaal River system.
The report warns that prospecting could disrupt the local ecosystem unless strict mitigation measures are applied.
The public participation period began on September 17 and will last for 30 days.
A public meeting to discuss the project is planned for October 17 meaning that residents and landowners have limited time to submit their comments.
Interested and affected parties (I&APs) can still register or submit comments to Beyond Green Environmental Services at info@beyondges.co.za or 012 003 6593.
