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Judith Phiri, Sunday News Reporter
PLANS to relocate residents of Hwange’s Ingagula suburb who are exposed to pollution resulting from coke ovens and increased truck traffic are on with Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Richard Moyo, confirming that significant progress has been made.
Residents have been complaining that they are enduring unprecedented levels of air pollution caused by the Zimbabwe Power Company’s coke ovens and increased volume of traffic in to the area.
In response to the concerns, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) is constructing more than 500 housing units at its Empumalanga Medium-Low housing project aimed at relocating the entire Ingagula suburb.
In an interview, Minister Moyo highlighted the progress made through regular stakeholder engagements.
“We have periodic meetings with all relevant parties every two months, and significant advancements have been achieved. Our next engagement is scheduled for the end of February. Plans are in place to ensure the relocation of residents,” he said urging patience among residents.
Minister Moyo emphasised the Government’s commitment to urgently addressing the challenges faced by the residents.
Ms Amkela Sidange, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA)’s environmental education and publicity manager, reported that the agency recently conducted an ambient air quality monitoring exercise and emission surveys in Hwange.
“This initiative aimed to assess the ambient air quality status in Hwange and ensure compliance with the Air Quality Standards and limits set forth in SI 72 of 2009. The results revealed significant air pollution levels exceeding both World Healths (WHO) and SAZ 24-hour guidelines. Major pollution sources identified include thermal power generation, road dust, coke ovens and open-cast coal mining,” she said.
She noted that two companies were penalised for excessive fugitive emissions from their coking processes. Additionally, five chimneys belonging to four companies were found to be emitting excessive amounts of gases, primarily sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide, leading to further penalties.
In addition to fines, these companies were mandated to take corrective actions within three months, in accordance with the Atmospheric Pollution Control Regulation, Statutory Instrument (SI) 72 of 2009.
“Ensuring compliance with the stipulated air emission limits could significantly enhance air quality in Hwange. The agency has also recommended to relevant authorities the relocation of residential properties, schools, clinics and other vulnerable groups located within the fallout zones of significant pollution sources to mitigate exposure to atmospheric pollutants,” Ms Sidange added.
Mr Fidelis Chima, co-ordinator of the Greater Hwange Residents Trust, praised the efforts of Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Richard Moyo, in organising community meetings to address air pollution and other mining-related impacts in Ingagula and Hwange.
He stressed that the organisation advocates for the relocation of Ingagula residents to a clean and safe environment, free from exposure to air pollution.
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