Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
THE Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has fined Koala Park Abbatoir US$1,000 for partial compliance with environmental requirements.
EMA carried out an inspection last week as the second respondent in an interdict filed by the Katonha twins against Koala Park Abbatoir.
The applicants alleged that the abattoir’s operations were causing air pollution in the paddocks along Seke Road.
In a court report signed by Christopher Mushava, EMA said Park Abbatoir should ensure that the paddocks are adequately drained during the rainy season.
The agency said this measure may help mitigate unpleasant smells that could result from dung and water remaining stagnant for long periods.
EMA also conducted the inspection to clarify whether there was air pollution along Seke Road which was being directly caused by Koala’s operations.
The agency established that Koala operates with a herd of approximately 4,500 cattle and slaughters about 60 cattle per day, depending on demand and consumption levels.
Koala’s facilities include 29 paddocks, with nine already decommissioned.
EMA reported that Koala has initiated a complete decommissioning process, expected to be concluded by September this year.
Within the premises are unpaved roads that are watered and treated using a molasses by-product. EMA noted that this practice significantly reduces fugitive dust from the dirt roads.
EMA recommended that Koala should continuously monitor fugitive surfaces, particularly during hot and windy conditions, which increase the rate at which dust suppressants evaporate.
As a result, EMA said Koala must adjust the frequency of dust suppression accordingly.
The agency urged Koala to install signage instructing drivers to reduce speed within the premises, to ensure that any fugitive dust—if present—does not spread onto Seke Road.
Koala was also directed to submit a monthly decommissioning plan and brief to EMA for ongoing monitoring.
After EMA submitted its report, the magistrate is expected to hand down judgment next Tuesday.
