Professional Documents
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Enqabeni Draft Bar
Enqabeni Draft Bar
Enqabeni Draft Bar
And
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT
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1. IMPORTANT NOTICE
In terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002 as amended),
the Minister must grant a prospecting or mining right if among others the mining “will not result
in unacceptable pollution, ecological degradation or damage to the environment”.
In terms of section 16(3)(b) of the EIA Regulations, 2014, any report submitted as part of an
application must be prepared in a format that may be determined by the Competent Authority
and in terms of section 17 (1) (c) the competent Authority must check whether the application
has taken into account any minimum requirements applicable or instructions or guidance
provided by the competent authority to the submission of applications.
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2. OBJECTIVE OF THE BASIC ASSESSMENT PROCESS
The objective of the basic assessment process is to, through a consultative process─
(a) determine the policy and legislative context within which the proposed activity is located
and how the activity complies with and responds to the policy and legislative context;
(b) identify the alternatives considered, including the activity, location, and technology
alternatives;
(d) through the undertaking of an impact and risk assessment process inclusive of
cumulative impacts which focused on determining the geographical, physical, biological,
social, economic, heritage , and cultural sensitivity of the sites and locations within sites
and the risk of impact of the proposed activity and technology alternatives on the these
aspects to determine:
(i) the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration, and probability of the
impacts occurring to; and
(ii) the degree to which these impacts—
(e) through a ranking of the site sensitivities and possible impacts the activity and
technology alternatives will impose on the sites and location identified through the life of
the activity to—
(i) identify and motivate a preferred site, activity and technology alternative;
(ii) identify suitable measures to manage, avoid or mitigate identified impacts; and
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PART A
SCOPE OF ASSSSMENT AND BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
a) Details of
Year : 2005
Degree : B-Tech Environmental Sciences
Year : 2009
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(2) Summary of the EAP’s experience.
2017 - Date Ndlelenhle Minnig and Environmental Manager (Ensure compliance with all
Consulting CC environmental regulation in so far as the required
licenses are concern (i.e. water use license,
environmental authorization and waste license). Derive
the strategies to junior subordinate to ensure
compliance with all the legal aspects.
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b) Location of the overall Activity.
Farm Name: Beestepan 1211 JS) (portion of remaining extent)
Distance and direction from nearest town The proposed mining permit area is situated on
eastern side of the town of Middelburg
approximately 18 kilometers
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c) Locality map
The proposed mining operation is situated approximately 18 kilometers east of Middelburg when
travelling on R104 from Middleburg to Belfast. The project is located within the Magisterial District
of Middelburg, under the jurisdiction of Steve Tshwete Local Municipality and Nkangala District
Municipality. The proposed project is on portion of remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1121 JS
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Agricultural area
Mining area
Pan
Abandoned mine
The figures 2 illustrate the current land uses of the proposed mining operation. It also indicates the
mining operation which are located in the vicinity of the proposed mining area. The following are
some of the surrounding activities:
The proposed mining operation aims at mining the remnant of the coal deposit situated within the
vicinity of all the above mentioned features. In that, the said proposed mining activities will result in
the being rehabilitated and used for further agricultural activities as agreed with the land owner. The
proposed mining activities will ensure that no further mining activities will occur within the area
which will leaves the land as agricultural development.
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Proposed mining permit area
The proposed mining operation is situated approximately 18 kilometers east of Middelburg when
travelling on N4. The project is located within the Magisterial District of Middelburg, under the
jurisdiction of Steve Tshwete Local Municipality and Nkangala District Municipality. The proposed
project is on remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1211JS (previously known as Hartogshoop
410 JS)
A coal mining operation can be viewed as being made up of some, or all, of the following sub-
activities:
o Construction of Access road 110m
o Establish mobile office and security dwellings 398m²
o Establish mobile ablution facility 64m²
o Construction of clean water trench
o Construction of dirty water trench
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o Construction of pollution control evaporation pond system-688m²
o Construction of Berms
o Establish mobile screening 721m²
o Clearance of vegetation 4.5h
o Drilling and Blasting
o Workshop 322m²
o Mining area (including strip 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5) 4,5ha
o Temporary stockpiling of material (Topsoil stockpile 1815 m², overburden 1405 m²and
ROM)
o Loading and hauling to the stockpile area and
o Rehabilitation 5ha
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Phase Activity Expertise Duration
Required
Construction Logistical consultation with land owner. Project 2 Months
Arrangements around legal requirements, access Manager
roads, availability of water as well as site Contractor
establishment.
Establishment of Mobile structures (office and
ablution, workshop and mobile crushing and
screening)
Creation of Control Dam and trenches and berm
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NAME OF ACTIVITY AERIAL LISTED APPLICABLE WASTE
EXTENT OF ACTIVITY LISTING MANAGEMENT
Mining, Activities - excavations, blasting, stockpiles,
NOTICE AUTHORISATION
discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and THE
transport, Water supply dams and boreholes, ACTIVITY
accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, (Mark with an X (GNR 544, GNR 545 or (Indicate whether an
processing mobile screening, storm water control, Ha or m² where GNR 546) authorization is
berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, and conveyors applicable or required in terms of
affected). the Waste
Management Act).
Access Roads 110m Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Mobile office and Security Dwellings 398m2 Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Mobile ablution facility 64m2 Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Clean water trench - Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Dirty water trench - Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Pollution evaporation pond 688 m2 Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Waste facility (domestic) 10m2 Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Construction of berm - Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Mobile crushing and screening 721m2 Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Clearance of vegetation 5ha Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 27
Mining area Strip 1 4 ha Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Strip 2 Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Activity 21
Strip 3
Listing 1 No. R 983 of 2014 N/A
Strip 4 & 5 Activity 21
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(ii) Description of the activities to be undertaken
Mining Method
A coal mining operation can be viewed as being made up of some, or all, of the following sub-
activities:
o Construction of access road; -new road will be constructed to access the mining area
o Establishment of a mobile office and security dwellings, ablution and screening;-mobile
structure will be brought to the site
o Construction of clean & Dirty water trench as well as pollution control evaporation pond-
these will be constructed for managing water for aspects such as pollution prevention,
water re use and treatment.
o Construction of beam- construction of berm to control access and manage water
o Clearance of vegetation- clearance of top soil
o Mining area (strip 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5)- mining
o Box cut- is a small open cut built to supply a secure and safe entrance as access
o Drilling and Blasting - is the controlled use of explosives and other methods such as gas
pressure blasting pyrotechnics, to break rock for excavation
o Temporary stockpiling of material (top soil, overburden and ROM)- managing of soil
material to be stored according to their sequence
o Loading and hauling to the stockpile area
o Workshop (meeting and discussion about work process)
o Rehabilitation activities such as landscaping and seeding 5 ha.- is the process of returning
the land in a given area to some degree of its former state
Rehabilitation of the mine has become an important consideration for government bodies, the
general public and mining companies. The development of detail environmental legislation has
largely reflected public and in turn government concern that mined sites retain at least a pre mining
land capability and that environmental degradation be repaired. Mine design and scheduling assits
in determining every activity associated with the proposed project. In that, it is critical to understand
the setup of the mining activities to ensure that concurrent rehabilitation is practical and possible
Concurrent rehabilitation commences with handling the topsoil, subsoil and overburden material
within the proposed area. Handling of soil material plays a critical role when conducting concurrent
rehabilitation. In that, the quantity of the soil material must be known as well as the area required
for storage. This is a key factor in handling the soil material since mining contractor will be shown
the location appropriate for storage and possible quantities expected. According to the survey
conducted on the proposed area an area will be required to accommodate topsoil and
overburden(refer to mining layout). The management of soil material during mining is important to
ensure that the chemical and physical properties are maintained.
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Figure 5: Schematic Illustration of Con-Current rehabilitation
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TIME FRAMES
Time frames are divided into a compliance period, an operational period and a rehabilitation/closure
period.
Compliance Period
The compliance time frame is as regulated by the timeframes as set out in the Mineral and Petroleum
Resources Development Act and will not be expanded on in terms of the Mine and Works Plan.
Construction Phase
The construction Phase will commence immediately upon granting of a mining permit and will
include the following items and expected timeframes:
Operational Phase
The operational phase will commence after the completion of the construction, known as steady-
state mining. A conventional strip mining [roll-over] method will be employed. Material from each
phase will be stored per overburden classification, with the bulk of the material placed in a position
alongside the final strip, to facilitate filling of the final void.
Steady-state mining includes the following processes and will be conducted by the mining contractor
appointed by Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd.
Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation of the opencast mining area will be done concurrently with the
opencast mining according to a stated mining sequence. Materials will be placed back into the void
in the former strata graphical sequence i.e. topsoil on the surface, subsoil directly below the topsoil
and all hard material [sandstone and shale] in the bottom of the void. It is envisaged that the final
reinstated surface level will be approximately 0.41m above the original surface level. However the
existing surface drainage pattern will remain unchanged and the total disturbed area will be free
draining. On completion of surface reinstatement, the area will be re-vegetated with suitable pasture
grass species. To conduct the above-mentioned process the planned mining equipment to be utilized
is as follows –
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e) Policy and Legislative Context
National Environmental Presence of trees The EMP will regulate the applicant to
apply for Tree Removal Permit from the
Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004
NCDENC prior to the potential removal of
any sensitive and/or protected species.
National Legislation
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National Water Act, 1998 Groundwater The Proposed area is located within
abstraction as part of Quaternary Catchment of B12C. the area
drilling activities do not constitute any river but only the
pan with associated wetland which are
located outside 100m of the proposed
mining operation.
- That an independent
environmental control officer is
appointed to ensure compliance
with this recommendation.
Mineral and Petroleum Application for A Mining Permit Application has been
mining permit in submitted to the DMR by the Applicant.
Resources Development Act, terms of Section The application was accepted by the DMR
2002 (MP30/5/1/2/11553MP).
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Municipal Plans
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APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND REFERENCE HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT
COMPLY
GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE WHERE
WITH AND RESPOND TO THE
THE REPORT APPLIED
LEGISLATION
AND POLICY CONTEXT
(Motivate the need and desirability of the proposed development including the need and
desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location).
• Seam #1 coal in the mining permit area generally has a phosphorus level of below 0.010%and is
suitable to be used as metallurgical coal in the steel, silicone and ferroalloy industry. There is
currently a worldwide shortage of steel and the supply of metallurgical coal is a necessary and
essential component in the steelmaking process. Steel is an essential component in the
infrastructure construction industry and construction cannot take place unless there is a
constant and secure supply of steel.
• Benefits of reliable power supply and ensure the supply of coal
• Needed job creation and other local and provincial and socio-economic benefits.
• Local growth in the economy and surrounding areas, and for local businesses
including those that supply, transport etc.
• Economic benefits for contractors and other suppliers of goods and services.
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Seam #2 coal play a critical role by producing energy in south Africa and also provides a
considerable resource of foreign revenue from exports which represented over billions, the
coal industry is also responsible for significant levels of direct and indirect employment.
Metallurgical coal plays a critical role in the steel making process, which is necessary for
the construction industry which is necessary to drive the South African economy.
.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
Steve Tshwete economy is one of the biggest economic areas and it is therefore expected that
a significant number of employment opportunities are being provided in the area. Mining,
trade and manufacturing are the major leading employment drivers in Steve Tshwete LM.
The unemployment rate of Steve Tshwete decreased slightly from 19.7% in 2011 to 16.4% in
2015 and was the lowest among all the municipal areas of Mpumalanga. Unemployment rate
for females 21.8% and that of males 12.9%.Youth unemployment rate according to the 2011
Census figures 27.1% - challenge with especially very high youth unemployment rate of
females. The largest employing industries in Steve Tshwete are trade (including industries
such as tourism), community/government services and mining. High labour intensity in
industries such as agriculture, trade and construction.
Mining in Witbank coal field (Nkangala) is the highest contributor to both economic growth
and job creation. As mentioned, the Municipality is host to a number of large industries and a
number of national mining companies, such as Glencore and South32. Given the abundance of
coal reserves in Mpumalanga Province (and being the key mineral within Nkangala) the local
space is likely to benefit from the resources abundantly found within the locality.
However, coal mining and related electricity generation within the municipal area pose
serious challenges around environmental degradation, infrastructure maintenance, and
agriculture. Coal produced is used locally within Middelburg but also exported. Eskom is the
largest local buyer while China is the major export buyer. Demand for coal is generally very
high for both market segments. Selling prices are generally regarded as stable both currently
and in the foreseeable future. The maintenance of the road and rail freight infrastructure
linking to other parts of Mpumalanga and to Richards Bay is one of the biggest challenges
faced by mining houses within Nkangala.
Agricultural Sector
The agricultural land in Nkangala is considered to have high production value and potential.
The agricultural activities are capable of supporting rural development; particularly through
emerging farmer support programmes.
Business tourism is identified as the key contributor to the performance of the hospitality
services sector within Nkangala. Key clients were identified and categorized as employees
from both national and provincial government, mines, as well as executives visiting the
various mining houses and other
businesses across the municipal area. An additional target market includes friends and
relatives visiting, together with travellers in transit either to the Lowveld, Maputo or Gauteng.
Key product offerings include bed and breakfast services, full hotel accommodation services;
and meals and entertainment. Businesses within the sector contend that since late 2008,
business has been fluctuating due to the recession. To survive in the market, businesses
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resort to cutting prices or offering massive discounts in order to attract clients. This
phenomenon cuts across different hotel and bed & breakfast sizes and is likely to continue in
the foreseeable future if the overall business environment does not improve dramatically.
g) Motivation for the overall preferred site, activities and technology alternative.
The site is around Steve Tshwete Municipality and the area is identified with coal mine projects. The
proposed method of open pit mining allows easy access of machinery to the site and does not require
extensive machinery as other methods, making it feasible for small-scale miners. It reduces the
overall costs associated with the mining process, thus allowing financial viability in small scale
mining of mineral deposits. Plans is to boost local socio-economic development through this
proposed project and will provide employment opportunities, thus stimulating development in the
community
Only technological assessment can be made due to the fact that preferred site is determine by the
availability of the mineral of interest.
The reasons
o The area has been highly modified due to mining activities which are currently taking
place;
o The site offer mineral required
o Little natural vegetation need to be disturbed
h) Full description of the process followed to reach the proposed preferred alternatives
within the site.
NB!! – This section is about the determination of the specific site layout and the location of
infrastructure and activities on site, having taken into consideration the issues raised by interested
and affected parties, and the consideration of alternatives to the initially proposed site layout.
The proposed area which is on the farm Previously known as Hartogshoop 410 JS
(now known as Beestepan 1121 JS), is where the intended mining operation will be
conducted, the area is located about 18 kilometers east Middelburg town when
travelling on R104, in Mpumalanga Province.
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Mervyn Lotter/Khumbelo Makhuvha (Mpumalanga Interested and Affected Party Email, Site Notices and Newspaper Advert
Tourism and Parks Agency)
P/Bag X1088
Lydenburg ,1120
Cell: 083 299 7618
Tel: (013) 235 2395
Fax: 086 578 7990
E-mail: khumbelomakhuvha@gmail.com
CC: Merveyn@interkom.co.za
Ward 9 Councilor Interested and Affected Party Email, Site Notices and Newspaper Advert
Mr Johannes Skhosana
Tell: 072 106 9677
Email: johannesskhosana77@gmail.com
Landowner Email, Site Notices and Newspaper Advert
Mr. Peter Kane-Berman
Email: peterkb@beestpan.co.za
Tell: 013 246 7116
Fax: 0865087263
Mr. Johan Roux Interested and Affected Party Email, Site Notices and Newspaper Advert
Email: potatfontein@mweb.co.za
Tell: 076 142 4290
Nkangala District Municipality Interested and Affected Party Email, Site Notices and Newspaper Advert
Email: ndm@nkangaladm.gov.za
SANRAL Interested and Affected Party Email, Site Notices and Newspaper Advert
Email: info@nra.co.za
CC: oliverj@nra.co.za
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iv) The Environmental attributes associated with the alternatives. (The environmental attributed
described must include socio-economic, social, heritage, cultural, geographical, physical and
biological aspects)
Topography
The topography of the project area is situated in a flat-lying topography ranges from 1620-1635 mamsl
as displayed by the contour lines on the topology map below, there are no hills and mountains around the
project area.
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Environment Description of the Environment and surrounding area.
al likely to be
affected
Locality map Status
The areas immediately adjacent to the proposed area has been highly modified due to
mining activities which occurred and remained unrehabilitated and the applicant will
rehabilitate certain (but not all) of these areas, which will be beneficial to the
environment. The mining will drastically improve the immediate area. The areas that
have been rehabilitated by the previous mining operations are currently used for crop
cultivation.
In accordance with the agreement with the current landowner, the applicants will be
required to purchase the mining permit area, rehabilitated same after mining has been
completed and thereafter give the current landowner an option to repurchase the land
at a nominal price and whereafter agricultural activities will resume.
If the current landowner fails to exercise its option, and then the applicant will establish
a grazing farm on the property.
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Vegetation 1.2 The specific environmental features on the site applied for which may require
protection, remediation, manage or avoidance.
Status
Currently most parts of the project area has been highly disturbed due to agricultural
activities and there are mining activities adjacent to the proposed mining permit area
that also disturbed the vegetation of the surrounding area.
Action
Construction of access roads and water management structure such as trenches and
berms are likely to cause vegetation disturbance.
Mitigation measures.
Removed topsoil must be placed on the stockpile area.
The topsoil stockpile will not exceed the height of 3m, and that the soil will be used as
soon as possible. Replacement of the topsoil will be conducted in accordance with the
soil horizons of the area applied for.
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Animal Species
Status
The resident fauna found during the site inspection (direct observation not specialist
study or survey) mainly comprised of birds such as doves, starlings, sparrows, guinea
fowl and crows as well as commonly found insects, reptiles and a few small mammals.
No protected or red data specie could be identified to be resident within the footprint
area of the proposed mining area. The fauna at the site will not be negatively impacted
by the proposed mining activity as they will be able to move away or through the site,
without being harmed. Workers must be educated and managed to ensure that no fauna
at the site is harmed.
Action
Construction of access roads and traces are likely to cause vegetation disturbance. Noise
can also frighten the said species.
Mitigation measures
Removed topsoil must be placed on the stockpile area.
The topsoil stockpile will not exceed the height of 3m, and that the soil will be used as
soon as possible. Replacement of the topsoil will be conducted in accordance with the
soil horizons of the area applied for.
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Soil
Mainly red (Ba) or yellow (Bb) and greyish soils, moderately (mesotrophic) to highly
(dystrophic) leached (low to moderate fertility status), with a wide textural range, mostly
sandy loam to sandy clay loam. Soils contain a greyish subsoil layer (plinthic) where iron
and manganese accumulate in the form of mottles, due to a seasonally fluctuating water
table. With time these mottles may harden (or even cement) to form concretions. These
plinthic layers will cause restricted water infiltration and root penetration. In drier areas,
however, they may help to hold water in the soil that plants can use.
The soil particles are highly affected by the occurrences of acid mine drainage within the
undermined adjacent area. During raining seasons, ground water percolate from old
underground working carrying high acid content. The said pollution has dramatically
degraded the soil quality within the vicinity of the area applied for.
Action
The proposed coal mining during construction and operational phases will result in the
removal of the topsoil layer, which will disrupt the soil profile.
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Mitigation measures.
Surface water
Status
The proposed mining area is situated in the Upper Olifants catchment area. This
catchment is known to host numerous dams (i.e. Witbank dam, Middelburg dam, Loskop
Dam), wetlands, streams, and pans within its drainage area. Different sized pans are
irregularly spaced on the higher lying areas.
During the rainy seasons, the pans hold water, but are usually dry in winter. There is no
stream/river observed within the permit area however there is an unnamed stream
which is approx. 1 – 2 km from the site and as depicted by the Google map there is a pan
close to permit area. It can be deduced that most of the water that flows within the project
area drains into this pan.
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Action
Site establishment and access upgrading will result in runoff containing silt material
entering into the pan.
Mitigation measures
The proposed mining will control water through the creation of trenches and pollution
control evaporation pond. (refer to the layout plan)
No mining activities will be conducted from any dam, perennial pan, river etc, therefore
there will be a 100m radius buffer zone from any water courses.
Groundwater Status
All groundwater movement in this study area occurs along secondary structures such as
fractures, cracks, and joints in the rock. These structures are best developed in intruded
bedrocks where cracks are formed hence the better water yielding properties.
Dolerite sills and dikes are generally impermeable to water movement, except in the
weathered state. In terms of water quality, the fractured aquifer always contains higher
salt loads than the upper weathered aquifer. The higher salt concentrations are
attributed to a longer contact time between the water and rock (IGS, 2008).
Action
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Mitigation measures
Topsoil, subsoil and overburden removed from the mining area will be stored separately
and protected from being eroded by either wind or water. Concurrent rehabilitation will
be conducted to reduce the chances of water infiltrating into groundwater and result in
polluting the aquifers.
The clay material will be utilised for rehabilitation which will assist in sealing the mining
area. No decanting is anticipated as per the geo hydrological study due to the size of the
area and the proposed rehabilitation plan.
Status
The area applied for constitutes small farm access roads which are available. The
proposed area from the farm it is adjacent to R104 road
Action
Public roads mining operation on this structures will contravene the provision of Mine Health and
(R104) Safety Act
Mitigation measures
No mining activities will be conducted within 100m of any structures including public
roads, rail-way line etc.
Graves The proposed mining permit area do not constitutes any cultural features. No graves or
any heritage features were observed within the vicinity of the proposed site.
Railway line
There is railway line in close proximity of the proposed mining area is on the northern of
the proposed permit area. No mining will be conducted within 100 metres from railway,
road, power lines, graves/historic significant etc.
However, should there be a need to mine within 100m of the said structure, the mine will
lodge an application with Transnet for their permission.
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Plan of the 1.3 Map showing the spatial locality of all environmental, cultural/heritage and
mining area current land use features identified on the site.
(2)
Description 1.4 Confirmation of the description of the environment with the input of community,
verification landowners or interested and affected parties.
-The landowner was consulted and proof of such consultation is attached as annexure to
the document.
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(c) Description of the current land uses.
The major part of the applied area is a highly disturbed on the south-western site there is
an abandoned land which has been previously utilised for exploitation of coal resources
using open cast mining technique (there is an abandoned pit) and such land is not
rehabilitated. Therefore, because of the magnitude of land disturbance, the proposed
mining area is not being utilised for any extensive activity instead a portion of undisturbed
land on permit area towards the pan is being utilised for crop farming. The property is
surrounded by the land which is being utilised for commercial crop farming and mining
activities.
There are also abandoned concrete buildings and some steel remnants of what appears to
be a boom gate. In some areas vegetation has successfully grown again on these uneven
surfaces. There is a power line which passes across the proposed project area on the
southern site of the proposed area. There also a railway line close adjacent to the northern
site of the proposed area. There is a pan on the south eastern site of the proposed area.
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Dumped cement rubbles and
Abandoned pit
Mining activities
Proposed permit
Agricultural activities
Pan
Abandoned mine
R104
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v) Impacts and risks identified including the nature, significance, consequence,
extent, duration and probability of the impacts, including the degree to which these
impacts
(Provide a list of the potential impacts identified of the activities described in the initial site layout
that will be undertaken, as informed by both the typical known impacts of such activities, and as
informed by the consultations with affected parties together with the significance, probability, and
duration of the impacts. Please indicate the extent to which they can be reversed, the extent to
which they may cause irreplaceable loss of resources, and can be avoided, managed or mitigated).
52 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Activity Environmental Environmental aspects Measures to prevent, mitigate, minimize or manage the
Impacts impacts
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Access road Noise Movement of vehicles during the Equipment and vehicles equipped with standard exhaust systems
creation of road which minimize the amount of emissions
Mining-related machine and vehicles must be serviced on a regular
basis to ensure noise suppression mechanisms are effective e.g.
installing exhaust mufflers. Noisy machinery to be used during
daylight hours preferably. Grievance mechanism to record
complaints should be kept on site and investigated. Noise
monitoring to take place.
Air Dust caused by Clearance of Dust suppression measures such as spraying with water
vegetation
Dust monitoring must be undertaken in accordance to monitoring
program
Water Disturb the smooth flow of surface Water monitoring program will take place and management of
water water will be conducted and contained within the mining area
Soil Clearance of vegetation Managed and monitored
53 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Construction of clean and Noise To prevent the noise emanating from Mining-related machine and vehicles must be serviced on a regular
dirty trench construction machinery from basis to ensure noise suppression mechanisms are effective e.g.
impacting on the sensitive receptors installing exhaust mufflers. Noisy machinery to be used during
daylight hours preferably. Grievance mechanism to record
complaints should be kept on site and investigated. Noise
monitoring to take place.
Air Dust Dust control / suppression measures such as spraying with water
Clearance of vegetation and topsoil
Water Disturb smooth flow of surface water Area of disturbance must be in line with the mine plan provided to
To protect existing users of surface minimize the loss of catchment area
water impacts on water quality The area excavated should have berms that are vegetated in order
to separate dirty and clean water systems, and an erosion control
measure
Soil Clearance of vegetation and topsoil The soil will be managed accordingly within the mining area
Construction of pollution Noise To prevent the noise emanating from Mining-related machine and vehicles must be serviced on a regular
control dam construction machinery from basis to ensure noise suppression mechanisms are effective e.g.
impacting on the sensitive receptors installing exhaust mufflers. Noisy machinery to be used during
daylight hours preferably. Grievance mechanism to record
complaints should be kept on site and investigated. Noise
monitoring to take place.
Air Dust
Clearance of vegetation
Water Prevent contamination of surface The area excavated should have berms that are vegetated in order
and ground water to separate dirty and clean water systems, and an erosion control
measure
Soil Clearance of vegetation and topsoil The soil will be managed accordingly within the mining area
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Waste facility Noise None None
Water Prevent contamination of surface Storage facility with bonding must be constructed
water by throwing or disposing on
Debris will be removed and disposed off in approved site
the wet land
Soil None Place waste receptacles at strategic points
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Preparation of mining Noise Prevent the noise emanating from The operation will comply with the provisions of the Mine Health
area (Strip) the construction machinery from and Safety Act, 1996 (Act 29 of 1996) and its regulations as well as
impacting on the sensitive receptors other applicable legislation regarding noise control
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Employees will be equipped with ear plugs and other protective
gear. All vehicles will be equipped with silencers and maintained
in a roadworthy condition
Air Dust Dust suppression measures such as spraying with water
Water Land degradation, land-use and Siltation of surface water resources will be minimized by road
capability wetting. The areas excavated should be have berms that are
vegetated in order to separate dirty and clean water systems while
enhancing the maximization of clean and minimization of dirty
areas and water systems respectively, and as an erosion control
measure. The stockpiles must be vegetated to prevent erosion and
subsequent siltation of clean and dirty water streams as well as
surface water resources. Upslope diversion and down slope silt
containment structures will be constructed. Monitoring of surface
water resource pre-mining and during construction must be
implemented in order to be used during operation,
decommissioning and post-closure as per the monitoring
programme.
Soil Limit the soil disturbance outside the Movement of vehicles will be restricted to designated areas
mining area
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Temporary stockpile Noise To prevent the noise emanating from A noise barrier in the form of a berm should be constructed on
area (top soil, the construction machinery from proposed area of disturbance (as per current mine plan) so that it
overburden and ROM) impacting on the sensitive receptors is situated between the main noise source and sensitive noise
receptor, as close to the noise sources as possible. The berm will
help with the attenuation of noise produced by the mining
activities.
Air
Reduction of dust fallout levels and Vegetation needs to be encouraged on all soil stockpiles to reduce
particulate matter dust levels.
Water Contamination Prevent soil erosion and keep water channel clean, monitor
groundwater
Siltation of surface water resources will be minimized by road
wetting. The areas excavated should be have berms that are
vegetated in order to separate dirty and clean water systems while
enhancing the maximization of clean and minimization of dirty
areas and water systems respectively, and as an erosion control
measure
Soil Reduction of area of soil compaction Ensure all activities occur within designated areas. Compile
accurate soil map showing classification, thickness, fertility status.
Remove and stockpile topsoil in berms or heaps less than 2 – 3 m
high. Do not use as storm water control feature. Vegetate with
diverse grass mix to control erosion. Wetland soils should only be
stockpiled at heights of 1 – 2 m. Subsoil stockpiles can be bigger
but must be protected against erosion similar to topsoil stockpiles
Water Water pollution Operate outside 100 m distance from stream or any water body
57 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Prevent soil erosion and keep water channel clean, monitor
groundwater
Soil Reduction of area of soil compaction All vehicles must remain on haul roads and within demarcated
area
POST CLOSURE
Ground water Water (ground Contamination of ground water Groundwater management strategies for most mining activities
monitoring water) are limited and emphasis falls on prevention of contamination
rather than the treatment thereof. Early detection of
contamination is the key to react and manage any possible sources
of pollution effectively. This will assist in identifying potential
future impacts from terminal operations on the groundwater
environments.
Ground water monitoring plan
Ground water monitoring system
Sampling method and preservation
Monitoring frequency
Monitoring parameters
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drawdown after one year of opencast mining. The result of this is
indicative and might vary slightly in reality. A radius of influence of
approximately 500 m was derived from this method using generic
existing hydraulic conductivity and storativity values. This could
have associated impacts on existing adjacent water users.
Acid Mine Drainage (risk ABA): Studies undertaken indicated
that the No. 2 coal seam could have a high acid generating potential.
Geological core from the coal seam, interburden and overburden
have been tested for acid base accounting and neutralization
potential. Results indicated that a low acid generating potential can
be expected from the No. 2 coal seam and host rock. The banded
sandstone indicated to have a medium neutralization potential
that will help neutralize the acid generation.
Post mining water management (flooding decanting and
downstream impacts): High recharge values are expected
through the back-filled areas and high hydraulic conductivity
values can be expected from the spoils and waste rock. Surface and
coal seam elevations indicate three possible decant points on site
thus appropriate mitigation measures will have to be put in place
to manage the water after mine closure. AMD could impact on the
water quality while potentially negatively impacting on receiving
water users. More in depth studies will have to be performed
during the operational phase to determine the geochemical
characteristics of the groundwater during and after mining has
taken place.
59 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
vi) Methodology used in determining and ranking the nature, significance, consequences, extent,
duration and probability of potential environmental impacts and risks;
(Describe how the significance, probability, and duration of the aforesaid identified impacts that
were identified through the consultation process was determined in order to decide the extent to
which the initial site layout needs revision).
The criteria below were used to assess the significance of the impacts. The cut-off points
have been defined in relation to characteristics of mining, but those for Probability,
Intensity/Severity and Significance are subjective, based on rule-of-thumb and experience.
In assessing the significance of the impact, natural and existing mitigation measuring will
be considered. These natural mitigation measures will be defined as natural conditions,
conditions inherent in the project design and existing management measures that alleviate
(control, moderate and curb) impacts.
PROBABILITY INTENSITY/SEVERITY
Definite: 100% probability of occurrence High: 100-50% degree of change in area of
direct effect/impact
High: 99-50% probability of occurrence
Medium: 50-15% change in the area of effect
Moderate: 49-15% of occurrence
Low:<15% change in area of effect
Low:<15% probability of occurrence
The significance of the unmanaged and managed impacts has been assessed through
consideration of the probability of the impact occurring, the extent over which the impact
will be experienced, and the intensity/severity of the impacts.
Negligible: the impact is non-existent or insubstantial, is of no or little importance to any
60 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
stakeholders and can be ignored.
Low:the impact is limited in extent, has low to medium intensity; whatever its
probability of occurrence is, the impact will not have a material effect on the
decision and is unlikely to require management intervention carrying
significant costs.
Moderate: the impact is of importance to one or more stakeholders, and its intensity will
be medium or high; therefore, the impact may materially affect the decision, and
management intervention will be required.
High: the impact could render development options controversial or the entire project
unacceptable if it cannot be reduced to acceptable levels, and/or the cost of
management intervention will be a significant factor in project decision-making.
Currently the land is used for crop farming. There are however a number of mining
activities adjacent to the proposed permit area . An increase in the number of economic
activities in the area may result in a proliferation of cumulative impacts if not managed
properly.
Poor management of mining activities, access roads and rehabilitation activities can create
cumulative impacts on vegetation of the sites if not properly managed. Mining will have
potentially a significant cumulative impacts on the environment. Therefore, potential
cumulative impacts will include:
o Destruction of heritage, cultural and resources;
o Water pollution and resources degradation; and
o Alteration of existing social fibre.
vii) The positive and negative impacts that the proposed activity (in terms of the initial site
layout) and alternatives will have on the environment and the community that may be
affected.
(Provide a discussion in terms of advantages and disadvantages of the initial site layout compared
to alternative layout options to accommodate concerns raised by affected parties)
The area applied for is of no significant heritage value and no impact regarding heritage
resources are expected as discovered during the EMP development phase. However,
should any further information confirm existence of such sites, steps will be taken to put
61 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
measures in place for preservation thereof in line with the National Heritage Resources
Act (Act 25 of 1999). Specific areas with such artefact can be marked off and excluded from
the proposed mining area. The South African Heritage Resources Agency will also be
notified of such findings.
The applicant will follow the following standard with regard to heritage resources (such
as burial sites, monuments and memorials):
o The prospective operator must, before commencing with work, ascertain whether the
designated site does not include a heritage site;
o National heritage sites must not be destroyed, damaged, excavated, or defaced without
a permit;
o Demolition of buildings older than 60 years is subject to approval.
viii) The possible mitigation measures that could be applied and the level of risk.
(With regard to the issues and concerns raised by affected parties provide a list of the issues raised
and an assessment/ discussion of the mitigations or site layout alternatives available to
accommodate or address their concerns, together with an assessment of the impacts or risks
associated with the mitigation or alternatives considered).
It is therefore that impacts such as noise, dust and water pollution are critical on this operation.
Must be dealt with in an appropriate manner
No alternative site were considered, only on the area of concern show highly possibility of coal
can be found. As a result, the mining commence at the shallow areas of the coal deposit and
continue with con-current rehabilitation applied at the same time.
Minimal activities are planned on site, which appears that alternatives were not possible. In many
cases, the mine design take into consideration the control on the storm water as well as the
groundwater which also dictates the mining operation.
x) Statement motivating the alternative development location within the overall site. (Provide a
statement motivating the final site layout that is proposed)
62 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
i) Full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and rank the impacts and
risks the activity will impose on the preferred site (In respect of the final site layout
plan) through the life of the activity. (Including (i) a description of all environmental
issues and risks that erer identified during the environmental impact assessment
process and (ii) an assessment of the significance of each issue and risk and an
indication of the extent to which the issue and risk could be avoided or addressed by
the adoption of mitigation measures.)
Risk Classification
The risks associated with the mining were assessed and ranked according to their environmental
significance. The ranking process coded each activity as high, moderate or low risk in accordance with the
following process:
The activities were assessed against two criteria: the likelihood of environmental harm occurring and the
level of the environmental impacts.
The likelihood of environmental impact was determined by assessing the following:
o Past environmental performance
o Current environmental performance
o Potential contributing factors
The level of environmental impact was assessed by considering factors such as the quantity and toxicity
of the material and the sensitivity of the receiving environment.
Environmental Non-Compliance Matrix(Compliance colour coding)
Level of Non- Certain Likely Less Likely
Compliance Moderate - High
Low - Moderate
Compliant
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j) Assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and risk
(This section of the report must consider all the known typical impacts of each of the activities (including those that could or should
have been identified by knowledgeable persons) and not only those that were raised by registered interested and affected parties).
Activity, Phase and Impact Impact Rating (before mitigation) Impact Rating (after mitigation)
Significance (75)
Significance (75)
Nature of Impact
Nature of Impact
Reference in EIA
Probability (5)
Consequence
Consequence
Phase
Duration (5)
Severity (5)
Activity No.
Probability
impact
Extent (5)
Duration
Severity
occurs
Extent
Impacted (C, O, Summary of
Environment D, PC) Activity Impact
Biophysical Impacts
Rock and
overburden
Establishment
will be
of initial
Geology C,O 6 removed, 7.3 N 1 5 3 5 9 45 N 1 5 3 5 9 45
boxcut and
permanently
access ramps
altering the
geology
The natural lie
of the land will
Site clearing
be
and topsoil
altered. This
removal and
C,O,D, 4& alteration of 7.2/
Topography establishment N 1 3 4 5 8 40 N 1 3 3 5 7 35
PC 6 the land will 11.3.1
of initial
have further
boxcut and
impacts on
access ramps
surface water
flow dynamics
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Activity, Phase and Impact Impact Rating (before mitigation) Impact Rating (after mitigation)
Nature of Impact
Nature of Impact
Significance (75)
Significance (75)
Reference in EIA
Probability (5)
Consequence
Consequence
Phase
Duration (5)
Severity (5)
Activity No.
Probability
impact
Extent (5)
Duration
Severity
occurs
Extent
Impacted (C, O, Summary of
Environment D, PC) Activity Impact
as the natural
drainage
pattern is
disrupted.
Transport of
Compaction of
C 2 construction N 3 1 4 5 8 40 N 3 1 3 5 7 35
soil
material
Compaction of
Site clearing soil, erosion of 7.4/
Soil and topsoil exposed areas 11.3.2
removal and and decrease
C,O 4&5 N 2 4 5 5 11 55 N 1 4 4 5 9 45
construction in available
of land for
infrastructure. agricultural
practices.
65 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Activity, Phase and Impact Impact Rating (before mitigation) Impact Rating (after mitigation)
Nature of Impact
Nature of Impact
Significance (75)
Significance (75)
Reference in EIA
Probability (5)
Consequence
Consequence
Phase
Duration (5)
Severity (5)
Activity No.
Probability
impact
Extent (5)
Duration
Severity
occurs
Extent
Impacted (C, O, Summary of
Environment D, PC) Activity Impact
Compaction of
Establishment
areas
of initial
C 6 surrounding N 1 4 4 5 9 45 N 1 4 4 5 9 45
boxcut and
box cut. Loss
access ramps
of arable soil.
Construction
of surface Reduction in
infrastructure base flow and
5& and in catchment
Surface water C N 3 4 4 4 11 44 N 3 4 3 4 10 40
6 establishment area size and a
of initial box change in flow
cut and access dynamics
ramps
Increased
Site clearing vehicle
and topsoil movement on
removal site and the
4,5 ,construction clearing of 7.7/
Air Quality C,O N 2 3 3 5 8 40 N 1 3 2 4 6 24
&6 of topsoil to 11.3.5
infrastructure, expose
establishment subsoil's will
of box cut increase the
dust fallout on
66 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Activity, Phase and Impact Impact Rating (before mitigation) Impact Rating (after mitigation)
Nature of Impact
Nature of Impact
Significance (75)
Significance (75)
Reference in EIA
Probability (5)
Consequence
Consequence
Phase
Duration (5)
Severity (5)
Activity No.
Probability
impact
Extent (5)
Duration
Severity
occurs
Extent
Impacted (C, O, Summary of
Environment D, PC) Activity Impact
site and the
PM10 levels
Increase the
potential load
of
sedimentation
of the water
resources.
Erosion of
exposed
Site clearing
surfaces. The
and topsoil
removal of the
removal and
4& topsoil and 7.12/
Wetlands C,O establishment N 2 4 5 5 11 55 N 2 4 5 4 11 44
6 vegetation 11.3.10
of initial
reduces the
boxcut and
potential for
access ramps
recharge of
shallow
aquifers that
feed hillslope
wetlands,
which in turn
reduces the
flow in water
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Activity, Phase and Impact Impact Rating (before mitigation) Impact Rating (after mitigation)
Nature of Impact
Nature of Impact
Significance (75)
Significance (75)
Reference in EIA
Probability (5)
Consequence
Consequence
Phase
Duration (5)
Severity (5)
Activity No.
Probability
impact
Extent (5)
Duration
Severity
occurs
Extent
Impacted (C, O, Summary of
Environment D, PC) Activity Impact
resources.
Possible
dewatering of
aquifers and
loss of
perched
aquifer and
interflow
between
certain
wetland areas.
Social Impacts
The project
Site clearing site will
and topsoil become
removal and noticeable as
4& 7.13/
Visual C,O,D establishment it will be in N 2 3 3 5 8 40 N 2 3 2 5 7 35
6 11.3.11
of initial stark contrast
boxcut and to
access ramps surrounding
areas
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Activity, Phase and Impact Impact Rating (before mitigation) Impact Rating (after mitigation)
Nature of Impact
Nature of Impact
Significance (75)
Significance (75)
Reference in EIA
Probability (5)
Consequence
Consequence
Phase
Duration (5)
Severity (5)
Activity No.
Probability
impact
Extent (5)
Duration
Severity
occurs
Extent
Impacted (C, O, Summary of
Environment D, PC) Activity Impact
Agricultural
land-use is
transformed
to that of
mining. Once
Construction the
C,O,D 5 of surface infrastructure N 3 3 3 5 9 45 N 2 3 2 5 7 35
infrastructure is established
and lighting
installed there
will be light
pollution in
the evenings
Increase of
Transport of vehicular
7.13/
Traffic C,O 2 construction activity on site N 3 2 3 5 8 40 N 3 2 2 4 7 28
11.3.11
material and the traffic
to the site
The supporting impact assessment conducted by the EAP must be attached as an appendix, marked Appendix
69 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
k) Summary of specialist reports.
(This summary must be completed if any specialist reports informed the impact assessment and
final site layout process and must be in the following tabular form):-
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LIST OF SPECIALIST REFERENCE TO
STUDIE RECOMMENDATIONS OF SPECIALIST REPORTS RECOMMEN APPLICABLE
S DATIONS SECTION OF
UNDER THAT HAVE REPORT WHERE
TAKEN BEEN SPECIALIST
INCLUDED RECOMMENDAT
IN THE EIA IONS HAVE
REPORT BEEN
(Mark with INCLUDED.
an X where
applicable)
Geohyd Monitoring
rologic o Conduct water monitoring and implement remedial actions as required and effective
al rehabilitation to as close to pre-mining conditions as practically possible
study o It is recommended that the monitoring network be placed at the boundaries; north,
south, east and west of the proposed mining permit. The construction must be overseen
by a qualified Hydrogeologist to monitor pollution in the upper weathered aquifer as well
as the lower fractured aquifer.
o A monitoring network should be dynamic. This means that the network should be
extended over time to accommodate the migration of contaminants through the aquifer
as well as the expansion of infrastructure and/or addition of possible pollution sources.
An audit on the monitoring network should be conducted annually
Modelling
o The numerical model should be recalibrated as soon as more hydrogeological data such
as monitoring holes are made available. This would enhance model predictions and
certainty
Water contamination
o Prevention of pollution of surface water resources and impacts on other surface water
users by training of workers to prevent pollution, equipment and vehicle maintenance,
fast and effective clean-up of spills, effective waste management, manage clean and dirty
water in accordance
Flow of water
o The disturbance of streams and surface drainage patterns and reduction in flow
to downstream must be mitigated through careful design of ephemeral stream diversion
that minimizes impacts on the downstream environment, limit activities and
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infrastructure within wetland and watercourses and their floodlines and implementation
of storm water management plan to divert clean water.
o Clean water trenches should be constructed surrounding the mining permit to prevent
clean water from entering the mining area, regarded as a dirty water catchment.
o Dirty water trenches must be constructed as well to direct water from the mine to the
pollution control dam, thereby preventing any contaminant water from leaving the mine
area.
Water use license
o That a water use licence becomes applicable only if the provisions of section 21 of the
National Water Act is triggered and that the Competent Authority, at this stage, dispenses
with the requirement for a water use licence.
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Attach copies of Specialist Reports as appendices
The project entails the re-establishment of coal pit over an area which was previously utilised for
agricultural. Therefore, very little natural vegetation must be disturbed as a result of the
agricultural activities.
The existing roads to the proposed coal mining pit can be used to gain access to the site. No new
roads are needed.
• The on-site workshop of the applicant will be used for meeting and updates
• Due to the remote setting of the coal pit the majority of potential impacts can be contained within
the boundaries, provided that the mitigation measures proposed in this document is implemented
on-site.
• The mining operation will have a temporary visual impact on the surrounding environment.
Upon closure of the proposed mining area the visual impact on the proposed mining area will be
mitigated and addressed.
• The proposed project is not expected to have an impact on the river passing the site to the south-
east as mining activities will be contained within the boundaries of the permitted site. Proper
storm water and waste management however needs to be implemented on the site in order to
minimise the potential of pollution.
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Figure 15: Mining Infrastructures
74 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
(iii) Summary of the positive and negative impacts and risks of the proposed activity and
identified alternatives;
Increased ambient noise levels resulting from mining activities.
Phase – Activities Impact/Risk Alternatives
Construction Increased ambient noise levels resulting from Due to the
- Employment mining activities. size of the
- Vegetation Removal Potential water and soil pollution impacts operation,
- Excavation resulting from hydrocarbon spills and soil minimal
- Machinery erosion which may impact on environmental alternative
Movement resources utilized by communities, landowners could be
and other stakeholders. identified
Potential water and soil pollution impacts
Operational resulting from hydrocarbon spills and soil
- Drill and Blasting erosion which may impact on ecosystem
- Hauling and Loading functioning.
- Stockpiling Increased vehicle activity within the area
- Crush and screening resulting in the possible destruction and
Closure disturbance of fauna and flora.
- Removal of foreign Poor access control to farms which may impact
material on cattle movement, breeding and grazing
- Scraping and practices.
contouring Influx of persons (job seekers) to site as a result
- Rehabilitation of increased activity and the possible resultant
- Retrenchment increase in opportunistic crime.
m) Proposed impact management objectives and the impact management outcomes for inclusion
in the EMPr;
Based on the assessment and where applicable the recommendations from specialist
reports, the recording of proposed impact management objectives, and the impact
management outcomes for the development for inclusion in the EMPr as well as for
inclusion as conditions of authorisation.
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Through the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, it is anticipated that the
identified social & environmental Impacts can be managed and mitigated effectively.
Through the implementation of the mitigation and management measures it is expected that:
Noise impacts can be managed through consultation and trough the restriction of operating
hours;
The pollution of soil and water resources can be effectively managed through containment;
Ecological impact can be managed through the implementation of pollution prevention
measures, minimizing land clearing, restricting working hours (faunal disturbance) and
rehabilitation.
Concerns regarding access control to farms can be managed through the development and
ensuring compliance to an appropriate access control procedure.
Risks associated with crime can be mitigated through avoiding recruitment activities on site, as
well as monitoring and reporting.
Visual impact can be minimized through giving consideration to site infrastructure placement
and materials used.
No activities may be undertaken within 100m of the surface water including the adjacent
wetland without prior approval of the Department.
No mining activities must be conducted within 30m of the previous mining workings
No activities will be conducted without the appointment of the environmental control officer on
site
No mining activities must be conducted without dust monitoring devices installed on site
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o Details regarding the presence and status of land claims are not available.
No Heritage Impact Assessment was undertaken.
p) Reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should or should not be authorised
i) Reasons why the activity should be authorized or not
It is the opinion of the EAP that the activity may be authorized.
The site is therefore regarded as the preferred site and alternative sites are not considered.
The option of not approving the activities will result in a significant loss of economic
development
ii) Conditions that must be included in the authorisation
The following conditions should be included into the authorisation:
A map detailing the locations should be submitted to the relevant landowners and the DWS
and DMR prior to the commencement of these activities;
No activities may be undertaken within 100m of the pans;
Heritage Impact Assessment must be undertaken where roads will be cleared and where
mining sites will be established, prior to the commencement of these activities; and
No activities, will be conducted within 100meters of sensitive area like pans
The application for mining permit has been applied for a period of two 2 years including the
decommissioning and rehabilitation
The applicant requests the Environmental Authorization to be valid for a period of mining
permit
r) Undertaking
Confirm that the undertaking required to meet the requirements of this section is provided at the
end of the EMPr and is applicable to both the Basic assessment report and the Environmental
Management Programme report.
An undertaken by the EAP and the client is provided for in Section 2 of the EMP
s) Financial Provision
(State the amount that is required to both manage and rehabilitate the environment in respect of
rehabilitation)
The financial provision for the environmental rehabilitation and closure of any mine/prospecting
and its associated operations forms an integral part of the MPRDA. Sections 41(1), 41(2), 41(3)
and 45 of the MPRDA deal with the financial provision for rehabilitation and closure. During 2012
the DMR made updated rates available for the calculation of the closure costs, where contractor’s
costs are not available these are used in assessments.
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The “Guideline Document for the Evaluation of Financial Provision made by the Mining Industry”
was developed by the DMR in January 2005, in order to empower the personnel at Regional DMR
offices to review the quantum determination for the rehabilitation and closure of mining sites.
With the determination of the quantum for closure it must be assumed that the infrastructure has
no salvage value (clean closure). The closure cost estimate (clean closure) was determined in
accordance with the DMR guidelines and is based, where possible, on actual costs provided by a
third party contractor. The closure costs are as follows:
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CALCULATION OF THE QUANTUM
Risk Class C
Area Sensitivity LOW
2(A) Demolition of steel buildings and structures m2 190 180.80 1.00 1.00 34,352
2(B) Demolition of reinforced concrete buildings and structures m2 0 266.26 1.00 1.00 0
4(A) Demolition and rehabilitation of electrified railway lines m 0 313.72 1.00 1.00 0
4(B) Demolition and rehabilitation of non-electrified railway lines m 0 171.34 1.00 1.00 0
6 Opencast rehanilitation including final void and ramps ha 5.0 189,071.04 1.00 0.52 491,585
8(A) Rehabilitation of overburden and spoils ha 0.5 126,047.51 1.00 1.00 63,024
8(B) Processing waste desposits and evaporation pons (salt) ha 0 156,989.79 1.00 1.00 0
8( C ) Processing waste desposits and evaporation pons (acid, metals) ha 0 455,971.82 1.00 1.00 0
10 General Surface rehabilitation and Grassing ha 5.0 99,851.01 1.00 0.52 259,613
SubTotal 1 931,414
(Sum of items 1
to 15B above) ` `
1 Preliminary and General 6.0% if Subtotal 1 > 100 000 000 Weighting factor 2 931,414
SubTotal 2 1,024,555
(Subtotal 1 plus sum of management and contingency)
Add Vat (15%) 143,438
79 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
State the amount that is required to both manage and rehabilitate the environment in respect of
rehabilitation.
ii) Confirm that this amount can be provided for from operating expenditure. (Confirm that the
amount, is anticipated to be an operating cost and is provided for as such in the Mining work programme,
Financial and Technical Competence Report or Prospecting Work Programme as the case may be).
It is hereby undertaken that the amount of R 1 167 993, in the form of a bank guarantee for
rehabilitation purposes as required in terms of section 24P NEMA, will be provided to the DMR upon
granting of the requested mining right. This amount is specifically calculated for final rehabilitation
purposes and excludes concurrent rehabilitation.
i) Compliance with the provisions of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) read with section 24 (3) (a) and (7) of
the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998). the EIA report must include the:-
During the site visit, there was no known cultural/archaeological/heritage site identified on the area
of concern that can be affected by the proposed mining permit activities.
(2) Impact on any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National Heritage Resources
Act.
During the site visit, there was no known cultural/archaeological/heritage site identified on the area
of concern that can be affected by the proposed mining permit activities.
u) Other matters required in terms of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) of the Act.
(the EAP managing the application must provide the competent authority with detailed, written proof of an
investigation as required by section 24(4)(b)(i) of the Act and motivation if no reasonable or feasible
alternatives, as contemplated in sub-regulation 22(2)(h), exist. The EAP must attach such motivation as
80 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
PART B
a) Details of the EAP, (Confirm that the requirement for the provision of the details and expertise
of the EAP are already included in PART A, section 1(a) herein as required).
The requirement for the provision of the details and expertise of the EAP are included
Please see appendices
b) Description of the Aspects of the Activity (Confirm that the requirement to describe the aspects
of the activity that are covered by the environmental management programme is already included
in PART A, section (1)(h) herein as required).
The requirement to describe the aspects of the activity that are covered by the
environmental management programme is al read y included in PART A
c) Composite Map
ii) Volumes and rate of water use required for the operation.
If Section 21 of the National Water Act becomes applicable, then the Applicant shall
be obliged to cease mining activities and apply for a water use licence before
recommencing mining activities.
81 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
necessary, on instruction by the department, to submit to a water use license
application, this will be undertaken.
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
82 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
• Make necessary arrangements with the
landowner for security measures, access
to site and other logistical matters
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Development Land degradation, • Voids will be rehabilitated and re- High Moderat
of Boxcut and land-use and vegetated e
Mining capability • Debris will be removed and disposed off
in approved site
Source: Poor waste
• Areas which do not form part if mining
management
site will not be disturbed.
Disposal of Land degradation, • Place waste receptacles at strategic
Waste land-use and points
High Low
capability • Monitor housekeeping behaviour and
insist on corrective action
Source: Poor waste
• Waste will be disposed off in approved
management
site
Mining and water pollution • Operate outside 100 m distance from
lubrication of (surface water, stream or any water body
High Low
equipment groundwater) • Control and manage storm water
• Prevent soil erosion and keep water
Source: leaks, spillages
channel clean, monitor groundwater
from equipment and
vehicles
83 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
• Employees will be equipped with ear
plugs and other protective gear. All
vehicles will be equipped with silencers
and maintained in a roadworthy
condition
Impact: Dust pollution • Dust suppression with water and/or soil Moderate Low
binding agents to High
Source: Machinery and
vehicles
De- Air pollution (dust, • Speed limits will be established and Moder Negli
establishment gaseous emissions) enforced ate gible
and removal of • Very temporary in nature
Source: movement of
infrastructure
vehicles.
84 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
and maintained in a roadworthy
condition
85 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Establishment of Surface High Construction Avoid unnecessary Moderate
site disturbance / encroachment on unplanned
ecological areas
degradation,
Rehabilitate with objective of
dust, noise,
returning land to initial land
spillages,
use
disturbance of
water features Keep 100 m horizontal buffer /
distance from water bodies
Keep appropriate distance
Destruction of
from sensitive and protected
heritage, socio-
site (100m to 500 m)
economic and
cultural Follow approved plans at all
features times
Where applicable, restore
biodiversity after closure by
reinstating indigenous species
Prohibit hunting of wild life
and wood collection
Constant supervision and
protocols
Operational Dust, High Operational Keep 100 m horizontal buffer / Moderate
phase destruction of phase distance from water bodies
water
Keep appropriate distance
resources,
from sensitive and protected
water pollution,
site (100m to 500 m)
safety, poor
hygiene & Erosion prevention
destruction of
property by veld Concurrent rehabilitation
fires Storm water management
Source: Prevention of spillages
workforce
Prevention of soil erosion
Maintain security and prevent
access to site
Rehabilitate excavations and
disturbed land concurrently
86 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Vehicle Spillages and Mod Maintenance Waste disposal protocol Negligible
maintenance waste erate
Attend to spillages instantly -
absorbents
Designated waste disposal
Rehabilitation Noise, dust, Moderat Closer Positive impact – rehabilitate Negligible
spillages e concurrently
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
87 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Establishment Safety and security • Employ locals who will be transported
/ construction home after hours
Source: Employees Moderate Negligible
of camp site • Make necessary arrangements with
the landowner for security measures,
access to site and other logistical
matters
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Development Land degradation, • Voids will be rehabilitated and re- High Moderate
of Boxcut and land-use and vegetated
Mining capability • Debris will be removed and disposed
off in approved site
Source: Poor waste
• Areas which do not form part if mining
management
site will not be disturbed.
Disposal of Land degradation, • Place waste receptacles at strategic
Waste land-use and points
High Low
capability • Monitor housekeeping behaviour and
insist on corrective action
Source: Poor waste
• Waste will be disposed off in approved
management
site
Mining and water pollution • Operate outside 100 m distance from
lubrication of (surface water, stream or any water body
High Low
equipment groundwater) • Control and manage storm water
• Prevent soil erosion and keep water
Source: leaks, spillages
channel clean, monitor groundwater
from equipment and
vehicles
88 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
Source: Equipment and its regulations as well as other
Blast applicable legislation regarding noise
control
• Employees will be equipped with ear
plugs and other protective gear. All
vehicles will be equipped with
silencers and maintained in a
roadworthy condition
Impact: Dust pollution • Dust suppression with water and/or Moderate to Low
soil binding agents High
Source: Machinery and
vehicles
De- Air pollution (dust, • Speed limits will be established and Moderat Negligibl
establishment gaseous emissions) enforced e e
and removal of • Very temporary in nature
Source: movement of
infrastructure
vehicles.
89 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
applicable legislation regarding noise
control
• Employees will be equipped with ear
plugs and other protective gear. All
vehicles will be equipped with
silencers and maintained in a
roadworthy condition
Financial Provision
(a) Describe the closure objectives and the extent to which they have been aligned to the
baseline environment described under the Regulation.
Environmental Objective or Control measure
risk or Issue requirement
To prevent ❖ Management Objective: to ensure that no harm to the receiving
and restrict environment occurs. To comply with the provision of government notice
siltation and 704 and not reduce the sub catchment yield.
groundwater ❖ Management Criteria:
Storm water pollution ❖ All clean water collected as runoff from areas up gradient of the
control mining sites should be separated from the sites by means of berms to
divert clean water to the surrounding areas, to allow natural runoff
into the nearby stream.
❖ The mining site will be considered a dirty area and demarcated as
such.
Contamination ❖ Management Objective: To prevent contamination of soils.
of soils ❖ Management criteria:
❖ All topsoil is to be removed from the site prior to stockpiling.
❖ Any contamination of soils should be suitably handled by an
appropriately trained person.
❖ Should soils be contaminated in such a way as to lead it being
classified as waste, it should be disposed of at a suitable disposal site
Erosion and ❖ Management Objective: to prevent unnecessary loss of soil through bad
siltation management.
❖ Management criteria:
Soils
❖ All surface run-off shall be managed in such a way so as to ensure
erosion of soil does not occur.
❖ All surfaces that are susceptible to erosion, shall be protected either
by cladding with biodegradable material or to layer of soil being
seeded with grass seeded/planted with suitable groundcover.
❖ The applicant should adhere to the requirements of the Department
of Agriculture in the design of effective erosion control measures on
bare soils.
Conserving ❖ Management Objective: To prevent loss of valuable topsoil.
topsoil ❖ Management criteria:
90 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
❖ The top layer of all areas to be excavated for the purpose of mining
must be tripped and stockpiled , in areas where this material will not
be damaged, removed or compacted. This stockpiled material shall be
used for the rehabilitation of the site upon completion sampling in
areas as deemed necessary.
❖ When stripping of topsoil takes place, the grass component shall be
included in the stripped topsoil. This soil will contain a natural grass
seed mixture that may assist in the re-growth of grass once the soil is
used for back filling and rehabilitation.
91 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
as well as any ❖ All activities associated to the mining activities should occur
sensitive species of within their designated areas and there should not be
fauna and flora – if encroachment into the surrounding areas.
present. ❖ Any areas to be rehabilitated shall be rehabilitated with no-
invasive species
Prevent the invasion ❖ Management Objective: To eradicate all invasive alien plants.
of the areas with ❖ Management criteria:
invasive species ❖ Invasive alien species shall be eradicated as part of the
rehabilitation programme.
❖ All alien species should be removed prior to flowering season
of the relevant species.
To retain the floral ❖ No floral assets of conservation concern were identified which
and fauna assets on need to relocate or left in situ.
site
To promote ❖ Management Objective: To promote vegetation establishment
vegetation and prevent erosion.
establishment and to ❖ Management criteria:
prevent erosion. ❖ A rehabilitation process needs to determined prior to
commencing mining activities – to ensure concurrent
rehabilitation.
Land Capability None ❖ No management of impacts on and capability can be implemented
since the proposed project activities will not degrade the land
based on their meagre impacts from a land capability perspective.
Social Impact Air Quality ❖ Management Objective: To limit public and staff exposure to
unnecessary dust.
❖ Management criteria:
❖ Dust pollution could occur during both initial stages of mining
each boxcut - especially during the dry months. Regular and
effective damping down must be carried out to avoid dust
generation that will have a negative impact on the surrounding
environment. Dumping should happen in the morning and
afternoon unless it rains.
❖ Dust monitoring to evaluate the efficiency of damping process or
dust suppression shall take place.
Noise Impact ❖ Management Objective: To prevent Public and staff exposure to
noise.
❖ Management criteria:
❖ Mining crew(s) should comply with the DMR and provincial
noise requirements
❖ All equipment shall be subject to routine maintenance, which
will include the checking of noise decibels or emissions.
❖ Personnel will be trained in techniques to reduce noise during
operation of equipment
❖ The applicant will record and respond without delay to
complaints about disturbing noise.
92 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
❖ The applicant should employ an open door policy with the
landowners, nearby farmers and any other affected parties
regarding issues that impact upon them.
Environmental Objective or Control measure
risk or Issue requirement
Waste To avoid, reuse or ❖ Management Objective: Comply with existing good waste
Management recycle material management practices in terms of NEMA principles.
where possible, ❖ Management Criteria:
correctly dispose of ❖ Contain all waste within designated dirty areas of development
unusable waste(s) – that is, mining sites.
❖ Ensure waste storage area does not generate pollution
and do not generate
❖ Cover any wastes that are likely to wash away or contaminate
pollution
storm water.
Archaeological Sites of ❖ Management Objective: To avoid disturbing sites of
and cultural archaeological and archaeological and cultural interest
interest cultural interest ❖ Management criteria:
❖ If archaeological and cultural materials are recognised during
mining, protocol according to SAHRA requirements will be
followed.
Graves ❖ Management Objective: To avoid disturbing burial sites.
❖ Management criteria:
❖ No graves were identified on the proposed project site.
Sensitive Nature conservation ❖ Management Objective: Conservation of ecologically sensitive
Landscapes or ecological areas.
sensitive areas ❖ Management criteria:
❖ There are no sensitive areas on the proposed mining project
site.
Regional Socio- Socio-economic ❖ Management Objective: To eventually enhance the socio-
Economic benefits of the economic benefits, and create job opportunities for locals.
Structure project ❖ Management criteria:
❖ No regional socio-economic benefits are foreseen at mining
phase since there shall not be any profit generation.
Interested and To ensure that all ❖ Management Objective: To inform all interested and affected
Affected Parties stakeholders are parties about the proposed mining project as the need may arise.
informed and aware ❖ Management criteria:
about the proposed ❖ The applicant should ensure that all communication channels
mining project are available in order for interested and affected parties to
voice opinions or raise concerns
❖ The applicant should strive to develop a relationship of trust
and credibility with interested and affected parties.
❖ The applicant should ensure that all information is shared and
correspondence with I&APs is fully and accurately
documented.
93 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
(b) Confirm specifically that the environmental objectives in relation to closure have been
consulted with landowner and interested and affected parties.
This Basic Assessment Report and Environmental Management Plan will be made available to each
registered stakeholder for review and comment. All comments will be captured in the issues and
response section and will be included into the final report.
(c) Provide a rehabilitation plan that describes and shows the scale and aerial extent of the
main mining activities, including the anticipated mining area at the time of closure.
Environmental Objective or Control measure
risk or Issue requirement
To prevent and ❖ Management Objective: to ensure that no harm to the receiving
restrict siltation and environment occurs. To comply with the provision of government
groundwater notice 704 and not reduce the sub catchment yield.
pollution ❖ Management Criteria:
Storm water ❖ All clean water collected as runoff from areas up gradient of the
control mining sites should be separated from the sites by means of
berms to divert clean water to the surrounding areas, to allow
natural runoff into the nearby stream.
❖ The mining site will be considered a dirty area and demarcated
as such.
Contamination of ❖ Management Objective: To prevent contamination of soils.
soils ❖ Management criteria:
❖ All topsoil is to be removed from the site prior to stockpiling.
❖ Any contamination of soils should be suitably handled by an
appropriately trained person.
❖ Should soils be contaminated in such a way as to lead it being
classified as waste, it should be disposed of at a suitable
disposal site
Erosion and siltation ❖ Management Objective: to prevent unnecessary loss of soil
through bad management.
❖ Management criteria:
❖ All surface run-off shall be managed in such a way so as to
Soils ensure erosion of soil does not occur.
❖ All surfaces that are susceptible to erosion, shall be protected
either by cladding with biodegradable material or to layer of
soil being seeded with grass seeded/planted with suitable
groundcover.
❖ The applicant should adhere to the requirements of the
Department of Agriculture in the design of effective erosion
control measures on bare soils.
Conserving topsoil ❖ Management Objective: To prevent loss of valuable topsoil.
❖ Management criteria:
❖ The top layer of all areas to be excavated for the purpose of
mining must be tripped and stockpiled , in areas where this
material will not be damaged, removed or compacted. This
94 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
stockpiled material shall be used for the rehabilitation of the
site upon completion sampling in areas as deemed necessary.
❖ When stripping of topsoil takes place, the grass component
shall be included in the stripped topsoil. This soil will contain a
natural grass seed mixture that may assist in the re-growth of
grass once the soil is used for back filling and rehabilitation.
(d) Explain why it can be confirmed that the rehabilitation plan is compatible with the
closure objectives.
Due to the nature of the activities, the impacts will be very limited and of short duration. The
management plan is provided in such a manner as to ensure concurrent rehabilitation. The areas f
or drilling purposes will be the main area experiencing impacts. In this event the activities will be
temporary in nature, and a detailed management plan has been provided to address potential
impacts associated with these activities
(e) Calculate and state the quantum of the financial provision required to manage and
rehabilitate the environment in accordance with the applicable guideline.
R 1 167 993.00
95 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
CALCULATION OF THE QUANTUM
Risk Class C
Area Sensitivity LOW
2(B) Demolition of reinforced concrete buildings and structures m2 0 266.26 1.00 1.00 0
4(A) Demolition and rehabilitation of electrified railway lines m 0 313.72 1.00 1.00 0
4(B) Demolition and rehabilitation of non-electrified railway lines m 0 171.34 1.00 1.00 0
6 Opencast rehanilitation including final void and ramps ha 5.0 189,071.04 1.00 0.52 491,585
8(A) Rehabilitation of overburden and spoils ha 0.5 126,047.51 1.00 1.00 63,024
8(B) Processing waste desposits and evaporation pons (salt) ha 0 156,989.79 1.00 1.00 0
8( C ) Processing waste desposits and evaporation pons (acid, metals) ha 0 455,971.82 1.00 1.00 0
10 General Surface rehabilitation and Grassing ha 5.0 99,851.01 1.00 0.52 259,613
SubTotal 1 931,414
(Sum of items 1
to 15B above) ` `
1 Preliminary and General 6.0% if Subtotal 1 > 100 000 000 Weighting factor 2 931,414
12.0% if Subtotal 1 < 100 000 000 0.00 0
7 Contingency 10.0% of Subtotal 1 93,141
SubTotal 2 1,024,555
(Subtotal 1 plus sum of management and contingency)
Add Vat (15%) 143,438
96 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
(f) Confirm that the financial provision will be provided as determined.
It is hereby undertaken that the amount of R 1 167 993, in the form of a bank guarantee for
rehabilitation purposes as required in terms of section 24P will be provided to the DMR upon
granting of the requested mining right. This amount is specifically calculated for final rehabilitation
purposes and excludes concurrent rehabilitation.
Mechanisms for monitoring compliance with and performance assessment against the
environmental management programme and reporting thereon, including
g) Monitoring of Impact Management Actions
97 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
h) Monitoring and reporting frequency
High level monitoring:
Bi-annual performance assessment must be conducted in line with the MPRDA (Regulation 55).
Establish a structured system of internal and external communication of incidents.
Any changes to the approved EMP which have an impact on interested and affected parties to be
communicated to them and the EMP amended accordingly.
Complaints register to be established and kept up to date.
Interested and affected parties concerns to be incorporated into the project implementation.
On a weekly basis all registers, procedures and records are checked against the prescripts of the
EMP. Corrective action must be taken in cases of transgress where necessary.
Internal audits to be conducted by an environmentalist when deemed necessary.
Employees assigned to specific tasks.
Should the mitigation measure not be in line with the prescripts, amendments will be made and the
employees will be made aware of the changes and encouraged to adhere to such.
On monthly basis, all site personnel will be inducted at the site and will be taken through the EMP
and other relevant legal requirements to familiarize them with same.
Simplified signalling will be placed on site to sensitize the workers of the legal requirements
attached to this EMP.
i) Responsible persons
The Site Manager is responsible for oversight of all EMP requirements. He/she may appoint an
assistant to conduct internal monitoring of activities.
The latter will be responsible for the monitoring of day-to-day activities related to the mining
process and report any environmental incidents to the Site Manager as per procedure to be
established by both parties.
Communication lines will be drawn and will cascade from the Site Manager through to the
general workers.
98 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
j) Time period for implementing impact management actions
In cases where a need for monitoring has been identified provide detail below. (Explain
what will be monitored, how it will be monitored, by whom it will be monitored, and how
frequently it will be monitored).
99 - (MP) 30/5/1/3/2/11553 MP
k) Mechanism for monitoring compliance
Description of the analysis
Standards and/or
Monitoring Locations to be conducted and the
legislative requirements
records to be kept
Air Quality - Dust Four monitoring points National Environment For the single dust fallout
monitoring (dust will be placed around the Management: Air Quality samplers, the buckets are
buckets) mining operation Act (Act No. 39 of 2004) filled with distilled water and
(NEM: AQA). left out on site for a period of
30 days (+/- 3 days);
according to SANS:1929; from
there the buckets will be
transported to a reputable
Laboratory for analysis.
Baseline noise In accordance with the The approach used in At each measurement point
monitoring is to be Mining Plan investigating noise the ambient noise level will be
conducted on a impacts is based on sampled in terms of the
monthly basis for guidelines provided by the following parameters:
the first 3 months to South African National
The A-weighted equivalent
determine the Standards (SANS). The
sound pressure level (LAeq)
impact of the noise following legislation was
for duration not less than
levels on the considered for this survey:
30 minutes per monitoring
relevant receptors
▪ The National point.
as well as determine
Environmental
the level of Measurements to be taken
Management Act (Act
mitigation. Once it is during both daytime (06:00
107 of 1998), NEMA;
established that the to 22:00) and the night time
▪ The National
mitigation (22:00 to 06:00).
Environmental
▪ Republic of South
Surface Water - Surface water monitoring Water quality will be the main
Africa. (1998).
Surface water will be done at strategic item that will be monitored by
Regulation GN 704
monitoring locations as follows:- the surface water monitoring
published in terms of
(samples from programme. Fluctuations in
Downstream of possible the National Water Act
monitoring points) water quality will assist in
sources of pollution e.g. of 1998. (Act no 36 of
identifying and informing
Sampling will be downstream of the 1998), Pretoria;
reviews of management plans
conducted on a decant points of both ▪ Department of Water
and mitigation measures.
monthly basis the North and South Affairs South African
Samples will be submitted to
during the first year pits; Water Quality
a reputable laboratory for
to establish Guidelines for
Downstream of a stockpile water quality analysis. A full
seasonal trends; and Domestic Use Target
area; analysis report on the quality
After the first year Values (DWA
Downstream of the pits to of the water will be submitted
of mining, sampling SAWQTV); and
establish a possibility to the mine management on
will be conducted ▪ South Africa National
of any pollution to the an annual basis.
quarterly. Standard (SANS 241-
streams;
1:2011) drinking
Downstream of water standard in
infrastructure that order to evaluate the
could be possible groundwater quality.
sources of surface
water pollution such as
the hydrocarbons
storage facilities; and
The surface water points
sampled during the
hydrocensus.
▪ Hazardous Chemical
Substances
Regulations (GN 1179
of 1995).
l) Indicate the frequency of the submission of the performance assessment/ environmental audit
report.
o Communication lines will be drawn and will cascade from the Site Manager through to the
general workers.
o On a regular basis, all aspects of the operation will be checked against the prescripts of the EMP
and its supporting procedures and, if established that certain of the aspects are not addressed
or impacts on the environment are not mitigated properly, it will be immediately communicated
to the operational team by management.
o Should the mitigation measure not be in line with the prescripts, amendments will be made and
the employees will be made aware of the changes and encouraged to adhere to such.
o All site personnel will be inducted at the site and will be taken through the EMP and other
relevant legal requirements to familiarize them with same.
(1) Manner in which the applicant intends to inform his or her employees of any
environmental risk which may result from their work.
o Communication lines will be drawn and will cascade from the Site Manager through to the
general workers.
o On a regular basis, all aspects of the operation will be checked against the prescripts of the EMP
and its supporting procedures and, if established that certain of the aspects are not addressed
or impacts on the environment are not mitigated properly, it will be immediately communicated
to the operational team by management.
o Should the mitigation measure not be in line with the prescripts, amendments will be made and
the employees will be made aware of the changes and encouraged to adhere to such.
o All site personnel will be inducted at the site and will be taken through the EMP and other
relevant legal requirements to familiarize them with same.
o Simplified signaling will be placed on site to sensitize the workers of the legal requirements
attached to this EMP.
(2) Manner in which risks will be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the degradation of
the environment.
Risks that may be anticipated during operations:
o Accessibility (by public and animals)
o Risk of flooding at times of high runoff – operate outside floodlines,
Before any task could be talked, a task plan observation followed by a detailed risk
assessment should be conducted – as per the main risk assessment standard operating
procedure. The risks identified should be discussed and addressed thoroughly during daily
pre-shifts environmental and safety meetings.
The above-mentioned measures will be adhered to and all necessary action will be taken to
immediately implement corrective action when an incident occurs. Each activity and
associated risks are linked in aspect and impact register to relevant procedure to prevent
incidental impacts. Compliance to these procedures should be seen as the duty of all staff
and contractors. Management will monitor that these procedures are adhered to and the
EMP is implemented.
c) The inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports where relevant; and
d) That the information provided by the EAP to interested and affected parties and any responses
by the EAP to comments or inputs made by interested and affected. parties are correctly reflected
herein.
Name of company:
-END-
ENQABENI MINING PTY LTD has lodged the mining permit application for coal in respect of Portion
of the remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS, Magisterial District of Middelburg in
Mpumalanga Province.
3. METHODOLOGY
The consultation process undertaken for the project was done one-on-one, e-mail, fax, notice boards
were place on site during consultation, newspaper advertisement and as well as through letters.
Follow–up telephonic discussions with the landowners was also done. During the discussions a brief
background description of the proposed project were provided.
4. CONSULTATION SUMMARY
5. CONCLUSION
The landowner has 30 days to submit comments, issues or objections to the proposed project.
Mr Paul Jordaan
Landowner (I&AP) Interest / How did ISSUES RAISED MANDATED BY THE CONSULTATION
APPLICANT STATUS
Capacity consultation
EAP’S RESPONSE TO (CONSENSUS
take place? ISSUES AS DISPUTE, NOT
FINALISED, ETC.)
Kind Regards,
Appendix A
Deeds Search-Landowners
Appendix B
Email Correspondences
Appendix C
Meetings and Minutes
Appendix D
State Department
Appendix E
Advertisement/Proof of publication
Appendix F
Site Photos
MINING PERMIT HYDROGEOLOGICAL STUDY
HYDROGEOLOGICAL REPORT FOR ENQABENI MINING (PTY) LTD LOCATED AT A
PORTION OF THE REMAINING EXTENT OF THE FARM BEESTEPAN 1211 JS, MPUMALANGA
PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA.
PREPARED FOR
ENQABENI
PREPARED BY
2021
Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Project Information
Project Title: Hydrogeological Report for Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd Located at a portion of the
remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
Site Location A portion of the remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS, Mpumalanga
Province, South Africa
Version 1
Electronic signatures
Compiled By Mutshidzi Munyai (Hydrogeologist) Singo
Consulting (Pty) Ltd (Water Resources
Science (Candidate Natural Scientist),
Environment Science (Candidate Natural
Scientist) (SACNASP Registration Number
122464)
Review and Dr. Kenneth Singo (Principal Consultant of
Approval
Singo Consulting (Pty) Ltd) South African
Council for Natural Scientific Professions
(SACNASP: Earth Science Reg. No:
400069/16),
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Report Credentials
Disclaimer: Copyright:
The results and conclusions of this report are The copyright in all text and other topics
limited to the Scope of Work agreed (involving the approach of comprehensive
between Singo Consulting (Pty) Ltd and writing) is the absolute property of Singo
Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd for whom this Consulting (Pty) Ltd, unless were referenced
investigation has been conducted. All to external parties. It is a criminal offence to
notions made and all knowledge contained replicate and/or use, without written
within this report and its attachments hinge permission, any matter, technical procedure
on the convenience to and dependability of and/or technique contained in this
relevant information, including maps, document. This document must be
previous reports and word-of-mouth, from referenced if any material included in it is
the Client and affected parties. All work used in any other document.
conducted by Singo Consulting (Pty) Ltd is
done in accordance with the Singo
Consulting (Pty) Ltd Standard Operating
Procedures.
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Singo Consulting (Pty) Ltd was appointed by Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd as an independent
consulting company, to conduct a hydrogeological study. The hydrogeological study is being
conducted in support of a mining permit application for coal located at, a portion of the
remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa.
The objectives of this study were mainly to assess groundwater conditions within the site in terms
of quality and to comment on the potential risk(s) of the mining permit operation to
groundwater quality and quantity based on the Source-Pathway-Receptor Principle.
Implement a water monitoring programme for the site and provide recommendations for the
way forward. And to conduct a detailed hydrocensus in and around the project area.
The mining site is comprised of minor aquifers and the dominant water source is surface
water.
The topography of the project area is situated in a flat-lying topography range from 1620-
1635 mamsl
There is a depression wetland type outside the mining permit on the south eastern side
(refer to Figure 3) and according to the topography of this area, the underground water is
possibly flowing from the northern direction to the southern direction following topography.
The project area is in the Olifants Management Area (WMA). The quaternary catchment is
B12C.
All groundwater movement in this study area occurs along secondary structures such as
fractures, cracks, and joints in the rock. These structures are best developed in intruded
bedrocks where cracks are formed hence the better water yielding properties.
The Project area is mainly covered by the Vryheid geological Formation. The Vryheid
Formation contains 5 major coal seams, with locally developed partings and splits in the
coal seams increasing the number to 8, within an 85 m thick stratigraphic horizon
(Greenshields,1986) although this horizon can attain thicknesses up to 160 m in the deeper
parts of the basin (Cadle et al., 1990). According to Cidle et al. (1990) all five major seams
are still present in the thinnest and most proximal parts of the formation.
The depth to groundwater level i.e., the top of the saturated zone generally lies between
5 and 40 metres below the surface.
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Most of the mining activities like dust suppression, dewatering of pit water, abstraction of
water from mine boreholes as well as mining within 500m from the water course triggers
section 21 of the national water act 36 of 1998 (NWA) and must be authorised by applying
a water use license at the department of water and sanitation before conducting any of
these activities.
Water quality samples were collected from the Elandspruit Pan, springs and a non-
perennial stream which is located to the north east from site:
The Piper diagram in Figure 10 shows that the surface water samples represent three different
water types.
Graspan Pit, EUF-7, EUF4, and SW1: have a Calcium-Sulphate water type. The major
cation is calcium, and the major anion is sulphate. This water type can be seen as water
typically impacted on by mining.
Pan (dry), EUF-5 and EUF11: have a Sodium-Chloride water type. This can be as a result
of natural and/or anthropogenic factors. When analysing the water quality of this
sample it is more likely that the source of sodium is as a result of natural factors such as
the build-up of salts in the soil/water as a result of chemical weathering of minerals and
evaporation.
Pan (wet) and EUF-2: have a mixed water type and as a result there is no cation/anion
exceeding 50%. This water type is representative of water that undergoes varying
degrees of mixing and ion exchange.
Groundwater management
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Grouting and capping of boreholes located within the footprint of construction camps be
required prior to construction activities.
Treat the water emanating for the opencasts to increase the decant water quality.
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................... 4
Groundwater management ........................................................................................................ 5
List of figures......................................................................................................................................... 10
List of Tables ......................................................................................................................................... 10
1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 11
1.1 Background information .................................................................................................... 11
1.2 Scope of work ..................................................................................................................... 11
1.3 Project location ................................................................................................................... 12
2 GEOGRAPHICAL SETTING ................................................................................................................ 13
2.1 Topography and drainage ...................................................................................................... 13
2.2 Catchment Description ............................................................................................................ 15
2.3 Climate ....................................................................................................................................... 16
3 TERMS OF REFERENCE ...................................................................................................................... 17
4 METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................................................... 19
4.1 Hydrocensus............................................................................................................................... 19
4.2 Sampling and chemical analysis ............................................................................................ 22
4.2.1 Surface water sampling ..................................................................................................... 22
4.2.2 Groundwater sampling ...................................................................................................... 22
4.3 Groundwater modelling ........................................................................................................... 23
4.4 Groundwater availability assessment ..................................................................................... 24
5 PRINCIPAL GROUNDWATER CONDITIONS ..................................................................................... 24
5.1 Geology ..................................................................................................................................... 24
5.1.2 Local geology ..................................................................................................................... 26
5.2 Acid generation capacity ....................................................................................................... 27
5.2.1 Acid mine drainage ........................................................................................................... 27
5.3 Hydrogeology ............................................................................................................................ 28
5.3.1 Regional hydrogeology ..................................................................................................... 28
5.3.2 Local Hydrogeology........................................................................................................... 30
5.4 Groundwater levels ................................................................................................................... 32
5.5 Potential Contaminants ........................................................................................................... 32
5.4 Groundwater quality ................................................................................................................ 33
6 AQUIFER CHARACTERIZATION ........................................................................................................ 36
6.1 Groundwater vulnerability ....................................................................................................... 36
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List of figures
List of Tables
10
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
1 INTRODUCTION
Singo Consulting (Pty) Ltd was appointed by Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd as an independent
consulting company, to conduct a hydrogeological study. The hydrogeological study is being
conducted in support of a mining permit application for coal located at a portion of the
remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa.
Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd hereafter referred to as Enqabeni Mining, proposes to establish an
opencast coal mine on the above-mentioned farm. The aim of this hydrogeological study is to
identify and quantify the expected impacts on the surrounding aquifers (groundwater volumes
and quality) from the proposed mining activities.
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Reporting
o Using the above components, a final groundwater report is compiled
The Enqabeni Mining coal mining permit is located at A portion of the remaining extent of the
farm Beestepan 1211 JS, in the magisterial district of Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. The
locality map below illustrates the transport infrastructures and settlements around the project
area. The road infrastructures make the mining permit accessible.
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
2 GEOGRAPHICAL SETTING
The topology of the area is illustrated below by Figure 2 below. A topographical map shows
the physical features of the land. Besides just showing landforms such as mountains and rivers,
the map also shows the elevation changes of the land. The topography of the project area is
situated in a flat-lying topography ranges from 1620-1635 mamsl as displayed by the contour
lines on the topology map below, there are no hills and mountains around the project area.
Elevation is shown using contour lines. When a contour line is drawn on a map it represents a
given elevation. Every point on the map touching the line should be the same elevation. On
some maps, numbers on the lines will let you know what the elevation is for that line. Contour
lines next to each other will represent different elevations. The closer the contour lines are to
each other, the steeper the slope of the land.
In this environmental project, topography is used to determine how soil can be conserved and
how water will flow over the land. Data from topography can help to conserve the
environment. By understanding the contour of the land, scientists can determine how water
and wind may cause erosion. They can help to establish conservation areas such as
watersheds and wind blocks. In this project contour lines indicates a lower chance of soil
erosion as they are sparsely packed
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Figure 3 below is a hydrological map illustrating possible surface water bodies that can be
found within and around the project area. The mining permit activities will take place at the
commence at A portion of the remaining extent of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS farm, within
this permit no wetland type is detected. There is a depression wetland type outside the mining
permit on the south eastern side (refer to Figure 3) and according to the topography of this
area, the underground water is possibly flowing from the northern direction to the southern
direction following topography.
14
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
The regional hydrological setting of the project site is indicated in Figure 4. The project area is
in the Olifants Management Area (WMA). The quaternary catchment is B12C. The WR2012
study, presents hydrological parameters for each quaternary catchment including area,
mean annual precipitation (MAP) and mean annual runoff (MAR). Based on the WR2012 study,
the project area falls within the quaternary catchment B12C. The total catchment area of
B12C is 529 km2 with MAP of 707 millimetre (mm).
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2.3 Climate
Table 1 provides a summary of climatic conditions on site (South African Weather Bureau,
2009).
Table 1: Climatic conditions summary
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Wind roses comprise 16 spokes, which represent the directions from which winds blew during
a specific period. The colours used in the wind roses below, reflect the different categories of
wind speeds. The dotted circles provide information regarding the frequency of occurrence
of wind speed and direction categories. The wind field is characterised by dominant easterly
winds. The north-westerly wind flow increases during day-time conditions with easterly wind
flow increasing during the night. During spring months, the strongest winds were from the
northerly direction. Autumn and winter months were found to be characterised by a higher
frequency in moderate winds. A distinct shift in the prevailing wind field between seasons was
noted. Calm conditions prevailed 6% during this period with a period average wind speed of
3.6 m/s. Wind speeds exceeding 5 m/s occurred with a frequency of 17%.
3 TERMS OF REFERENCE
The baseline geohydrological assessment for the project area is mainly constructed by a
combination of desktop study and site-specific field study. Most of the information used for this
study was compiled with an aid of nearby study sites information and experience from similar
geohydrological settings. All collected data will be compiled to construct a conceptual
geohydrological model.
The objective of the study is to collect hydrogeological and geochemical baseline information
to address the subsequent environmental impact assessment for the mining permit.
Management and mitigation measures for identified impacts should be outlined for the
operational phase of the project and associated monitoring, management and mitigation
measures recommended.
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Aspect Description
Desktop Study Project Initiation and Data Collection
Review available site specific hydrogeological
and hydrological information to conceptualize the
different aquifer systems and their interaction with
surface water features in the area.
Groundwater levels A water level meter was used to measure the
water level at all the boreholes within the study site
Aquifer classification Aquifers will be classified into either minor or major
aquifer types and dominant water source will be
identified
Groundwater recharge Groundwater recharge will be calculated using
the chloride method
Hydrogeological Modelling Interpret geochemical analyses of water samples
conducted by Regen waters Lab
Numerical Groundwater Flow and Transport Model
Model inputs
Model Calibration
Scenario Modelling
Hydrogeological Impact Assessment
Use the model to predict potential mining
impacts on the shallow and deep
groundwater flow systems, groundwater
seepages and spring discharges
Reporting Writing a comprehensive geohydrological report outlining
all the findings and existing environment of the proposed
project area. This groundwater specialist report compiles
all methodologies, findings, quantitative analysis
(geochemical assessment and modelling outcomes),
impact assessments, recommendations (proposed
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
4 METHODOLOGY
4.1 Hydrocensus
A detailed hydrocensus was conducted on and around the site to a radius distance of 2km so
as to obtain a representative population of the boreholes in the area. During the hydrocensus,
all available details of boreholes and borehole-owners were collected and included in the
hydrocensus forms. Water samples were collected from boreholes as described in the relevant
paragraph below. Information was collected on the use of the boreholes in the area, the water
levels and yields of boreholes, etc. The information can be used to assess the risk which
potential groundwater pollution poses to groundwater users.
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B32A
it
mspru
Keero
B32B
B12E Legend
B41A
Hydrocensus Boreholes
BOREHOLE
s Rivers
Selon
Cities
Quaternary Catchment
Dams
RIVER/STREAMBOREHOLE
in-
Oli
BOREHOLE
fan
Middelburg
BOREHOLE
ts
BOREHOLE
RIVER/STREAM
anks
BOREHOLE
pruit
RIVER/STREAM
Bo
sm
an
sp BOREHOLE
rui
t
B12B
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Various tools were used in collecting the data such as Water level meter, handheld GPS,
measuring tape and a bailer. These tools were used on various boreholes on the site. The hand
GPS was used to determine the longitudinal, latitude and elevation for each borehole that
was being observed. After recording the GPS coordinates, the measuring tape was used in
taking all collar height measurements of the boreholes. The level meter together with a
measuring tape were used in order to get the water levels.
Before sampling, the sampler must make sure that they rinse the sampling vessel on site with
water about 3-4 times. In order to prevent contaminating water for sampling during rinsing,
caution must be taken. Submerge the collecting vessel gently, fill it with the water sample and
seal it firmly. Leave some room for expansion equal to about 10 percent of the sampling vessel
if the collected water sample can be frozen (Singh, 2015).
Bailer
A bailer is a hollow tube used to collect samples of groundwater from wells for monitoring.
Bailers are tied to and lowered into the water column by a piece of rope or a piece of wire.
When lowered, the bailer uses a simple ball check valve to seal a sample of the groundwater
table at the bottom to raise it up. The bailers are made of polyethylene, PVC, FEP or stainless
steel and can be disposable or reusable (Singh, 2015).
Bailers are easy and relatively inexpensive devices to use. In addition, bailers can be lowered
to any depth although the depth of the well is sharply limited by pumps. Aeration of the water
when the sample is collected, which could release volatile organic compounds that need to
be tested, is the main downside to using bailers. This can also conflict with the proper seating
of the ball check valve if there is a high volume of sediment or turbidity (Singh, 2015).
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Figure 6: Stainless steel bailer, picture extracted from (Solist, n.d.). A bailer uses a simple ball
check valve to seal a sample of the groundwater table at the bottom to raise it up
The chosen software is MODFLOW. During model setup, the conceptual model is translated
into a numerical model. This stage entails selecting the model domain, defining the model
boundary conditions, discretizing the data spatially and over time, defining the initial
conditions, selecting the aquifer type, and preparing the model input data. The above
conditions together with the input data are used to simulate the groundwater flow in the
model domain for pre-mining steady state conditions.
Conceptual model
A conceptual model is a simplification of the complex real system down to familiar aspects
that can easily be solved. This conceptual model is just a step prior to a solution model which
can either be analytical or numerical.
Numerical model
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All groundwater movement in this study area occurs along secondary structures such as
fractures, cracks, and joints in the rock. These structures are best developed in intruded
bedrocks where cracks are formed hence the better water yielding properties.
Dolerite sills and dikes are generally impermeable to water movement, except in the
weathered state. In terms of water quality, the fractured aquifer always contains higher salt
loads than the upper weathered aquifer. The higher salt concentrations are attributed to a
longer contact time between the water and rock (IGS, 2008).
Figure 7: Fractured rock aquifer regime (Source: (Krautkramer & Noble, n.d.))
5.1 Geology
The coal deposits in South Africa are largely hosted by the Karoo Supergroup, which was
deposited in the Gondwana basin that covered parts of Africa, Antarctica, South America
and Australia. The basal Stratigraphy of the Karoo Supergroup comprises the Dwyka Group
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which is a Late Carboniferous to Early Permian (~320Ma) sequence of glacial and periglacial
sediments including diamictite, till moraine, conglomerate, sandstone, mudstone and varved
shale.
The Dwyka group is overlain by the Ecca Group which is an Early to Late Permian (~260 Ma)
sequence composed of sandstone, siltstone, mudstone, and large deposits of coal seams
deposited in a terrestrial basin on a gently subsiding shelf platform. In the surrounding Witbank
Coalfield areas, the Ecca Group is overlain by the Beaufort Group, which is Early Triassic (~260
to 210 Ma), comprising multi-colored mudstone and sandstone with only minor coal
accumulation, and was deposited in a fluvial environment.
The Molteno Formation rests unconformably on the Beaufort Group and comprises Late Triassic
(~210 Ma) coarse, immature sandstone with minor argillaceous layers derived from braided
streams. This in turn is overlain by the Elliot Formation consisting of red mudstone and sandstone
and the Clarens Formation comprising Aeolian sandstone. At the top of the Karoo Supergroup
stratigraphy is the Drakensburg Group, which comprises Early to Middle Jurassic (~180 Ma)
flood basalts.
According to the 2628 East Rand 1:250 000 geology series map the site is situated on Permian
(245 000 – 290 000 million years) sandstone, shale and coal beds of the Vryheid Formation of
the Ecca Group, and Karoo Supergroup. Jurassic (145 000 – 208 000 million years) dolerite sills
intruded into the older sediments through vertical feeder dykes. Quaternary surficial deposits
of alluvium and ferricrete can be found throughout the surrounding area.
The Ecca Group, which is part of the Karoo Supergroup, comprises of sediments deposited in
shallow marine and fluvial-deltaic environments with coal accumulated as peat in swamps
and marshes associated with these environments. The sandstone and coal layers are normally
reasonable aquifers, while the shale trends to act as aquitards. Several layered aquifers
perched on the relative impermeable shale are common in such sequences. The Dwyka
Formation comprises consolidated products of glaciations (with high amounts of clay) and is
normally considered have impermeable qualities.
The general horizontally disposed sediments of the Karoo Supergroup are typically undulating
with a gentle regional dip to the south. The extent of the coal is largely controlled by the pre-
Karoo topography.
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Abundant dolerite intrusions are present in the Ecca sediments. These intrusions comprise sills,
which vary from being concordant to transgressive in structure, and feeder dykes. Although
these structures serve as aquitards and tend to compartmentalize the groundwater regime,
the contact zones with the pre-existing geological formations also serve as groundwater
conduits. There are common occurrences of minor slips or faults, particularly in close proximity
to the dolerite intrusions. Within the coalfield, these minor slips, displacing the coal seam by a
matter of 1 to 2 meters, are likely to be common in places.
The Vryheid Formation consists mainly of sandstone and shale with some subordinate coal
seams associated with it (SACS, 1980). The sediments of the Vryheid Formation probably
represent alluvial plain, upper, and lower delta plain deposits with associated shallow lagoon
and coastal swamps (Jermy and Bell, 1990). The change from stable margin to subsiding
foreland basin confined the Vryheid.
The Vryheid Formation contains 5 major coal seams, with locally developed partings and splits
in the coal seams increasing the number to 8, within an 85 m thick stratigraphic horizon
(Greenshields,1986) although this horizon can attain thicknesses up to 160 m in the deeper
parts of the basin (Cadle et al., 1990). According to Cidle et al. (1990) all five major seams are
still present in the thinnest and most proximal parts of the formation.
Greenshields (1986) states that all four cyclothems exhibit aggressive phase where
sedimentation occur red influvio-deltaic environments, followed by a transgressive phase
where sedimentation was typical of both marine and non-marine transgressive shorelines. A
seam is therefore associated with clastic successions comprising carbonaceous shale or
siltstone, fine to coarse-grained sandstone and minor conglomerate (Cadle et al.1990).
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Acid mine drainage (AMD) poses a serious threat in mines especially mines where there is an
abundance of sulphide minerals. AMD is expected to occur due to the extraction of sulphide
ores such as chalcopyrite, pyrite or arsenopyrite ores. Hence, acid mine drainage studies
should be included as one of the impacts to be mitigated in the mining area. The presence of
acid mine drainage in a mining area will be demonstrated by a drop in pH. The equations
below show the process of acid mine drainage formation detailed in four steps. This process is
self-propagating until the ferric iron or pyrite is depleted. Generally, when pyrite combines with
oxygen and water, acid mine drainage forms. If AMD gets into surface waterways, both the
acidity and metal content can produce significant environmental problems over large
distances. Once AMD reaches surface waters, the acidity may cause significant
environmental problems over long distances and destroy the aquatic life.
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5.3 Hydrogeology
The study area falls under the Karoo (fractured and influenced by dykes). For effective
borehole yields, the boreholes must target the fracture zones in this area.
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The Vryheid Formation comprise predominantly of thick beds of yellowish to white cross-
bedded sandstone and grit alternating with beds of soft sandy shale. This unit also contains the
coal seams that underpin the coal mining activities. The sedimentary rocks are, however, so
extensively and widely intruded by dolerite sheets and dykes, that two lithologies are
considered to represent a single groundwater system. Vegter et al (1968) list six different modes
of groundwater occurrence associated with these formations: (a) weathered and fractured
sedimentary rocks not associated with dolerite intrusions, (b) indurated and jointed
sedimentary rocks alongside dykes, (c) narrow weathered and fractured dolerite dykes, (d)
basins of weathering in dolerite sills and highly jointed sedimentary rocks enclosed by dolerite,
(e) weathered and fractured upper contact-zone of dolerite sills and (f) weathered and
fractured lower contact-zones of dolerite sills. Minor groundwater strikes are also often
encountered in association with the coal seams (Visser et al., 1949).
Based on the geology within the study area, the structural geology, and the geomorphology,
the following conditions can arise to enhance aquifer development within the study area:
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The fractured Karoo aquifer consists of the various lithologies of siltstone, shale, sandstone and
the coal seams. The pores of the geological units are generally well cemented, and the
principle flow mechanism is fractured flow along secondary structures e.g. faults, bedding
plane fractures etc. The intrusion of the fractured aquifer by dolerite dykes and sills has led to
the formation of preferential flow paths along the contacts of these lithologies due to the
formation of cooling joints. The dykes may act as permeable or semi-permeable features to
impede flow across the dykes.
The fractured pre-Karoo aquifer is separated from the overlying fractured Karoo aquifer by
Dwyka tillites which act as an aquiclude where present. The flow mechanism is fracture flow
as can be expected from the crystalline nature of the granite rocks. The water quality is
generally characterized by high fluoride levels which limits exploitation of this aquifer in
combination with the general low yields, deep (expensive) drilling and the low recharge
(Grobbelaar et al, 2004). Mining of the coal seams has resulted in the introduction of an
artificial aquifer system which generally dominates the groundwater flow on a local and
regional scale. Below is a summary of the geohydrological system.
Two distinct aquifer types exist which are shallow weathered Karoo aquifer (unconfined) and
Upper fractured aquifer (unconfined to semi-confined) (less than 70 to 90mbgl).
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The weathered zone of the Karoo sediments hosts the unconfined or semi-confined shallow
weathered Karoo aquifer. Water levels are often shallow (few meters below ground level)
and the water quality good due to direct rainfall recharge and dynamic groundwater flow
through the unconfined aquifer in weathered sediments, which makes it also vulnerable to
pollution.
Water intersections in the weathered aquifer are mostly encountered above or at the
interface to fresh, where the vertical infiltration of water is typically limited by impermeable
layers of weathering products and capillary forces, with subsequent lateral movement
following topographical gradients.
Localized perched aquifers may occur on clay layers or lenses at shallower depth (soil
zone) but are due to their localized and detached nature of no further interest in the
context of the current study.
Alluvial deposits occur in most valley bottoms associated with surface water courses, but
their regional coverage is small. These unconsolidated alluvial sediments comprise of clay,
sand, gravel, and boulder sized grains.
2. Fractured aquifer
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The strike frequency analysis for the Karoo rocks indicates a predominant shallow
groundwater occurrence, mostly in the first 50 meters below the water table (Woodford
and Chevallier, 2002)
The depth to groundwater level i.e. the top of the saturated zone generally lies between 5
and 40 metres below the surface.
The probability of striking water is highest within the first 10-15 metres or so below the
groundwater level.
Peak strike depths range from 15 to 50 metres below the surface. Below 50 m strike
frequency averages about one third of that between 10 and 40 m.
The chances of striking water are neither enhanced nor on the other hand appreciably
reduced by the presence of dykes.
Dykes should not be regarded as hydrogeologically different from the gneisses, granites
and granitoids in which they occur but as part and parcel of a hard-rock entirety. Their
water-bearing characteristics should be seen neither as barrier nor as conduit but as
variable as the adjoining country rock.
Dyke contacts are not per se water strike zones. Success depends on whether country rock
or dyke or both are weathered and fractured to below the water level.
Deeper strikes do not necessarily result in higher yields. There is no material difference
between shallow-strike and deep-strike median yields. The effect of greater pumping
drawdown is apparently counteracted by a decrease of fracture aperture and 5.5
Groundwater potential contaminants.
The potential contaminants associated with the general area containing the mining permit,
the product stockpiles, the Briquetting plant, and Coal Transfer facility, could be both organic
and inorganic: Workshops and fuel and oil handling facilities are likely sources of hydrocarbon
related contaminants. Oils, grease, and other hydrocarbon products (such as petrol and
diesel) handled in these areas may contaminate the environment by spillages and leakages.
Oils and greases are removed and collected in oil traps.
Surface water bodies and groundwater may be contaminated by run-off (contained with
hydrocarbons) by entering the storm water system when is not collected. Septic tanks and
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Sulphate is probably the most reliable indicator of pollution emanating from coal mining
related activities. The chemistry analyses supplied within this report should henceforth serve as
baseline water quality throughout the life of the mining permit operations.
Water quality samples were collected from the Elandspruit Pan, springs and a non-perennial
stream which is located to the north east from site. The Piper diagram is one of the most
commonly used techniques to interpret groundwater chemistry data. The upper half of the
diamond normally contains water of static and dis-ordinate regimes, while the middle area
normally indicates an area of dissolution and mixing. The lower triangle of this diamond shape
indicates an area of dynamic and co-ordinated regimes. Sodium chloride brines normally plot
on the right-hand corner of the diamond shape while recently recharged water plots on the
left-hand corner of the diamond plot. The top corner normally indicates water contaminated
with gypsum (often related to coal mining activities).
The Piper diagram in Figure 10 shows that the surface water samples represent three different
water types.
Graspan Pit, EUF-7, EUF4, and SW1: have a Calcium-Sulphate water type. The major
cation is calcium, and the major anion is sulphate. This water type can be seen as water
typically impacted on by mining.
Pan (dry), EUF-5 and EUF11: have a Sodium-Chloride water type. This can be as a result
of natural and/or anthropogenic factors. When analysing the water quality of this
sample it is more likely that the source of sodium is as a result of natural factors such as
the build-up of salts in the soil/water as a result of chemical weathering of minerals and
evaporation.
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Pan (wet) and EUF-2: have a mixed water type and as a result there is no cation/anion
exceeding 50%. This water type is representative of water that undergoes varying
degrees of mixing and ion exchange.
Based on the laboratory results (Table 14), the SANS 241: Drinking water standards (2011)
standards were exceeded for samples; EUF-4, EUF-7, Pan (dry) and Graspan Pit as discussed
below:
Sample EUF-4 is a spring located below the Rietfontein Sand & Klip workings. The spring has
very acid water (pH of 3.68) and elevated heavy metals (aluminium at 1.49 mg/l and
manganese at 2.15 mg/l). The sulphate concentration of 200mg/l, this is within the SANS 241:
Drinking water standards but is highly elevated.
compared to other water samples in the area. It is likely that this spring is being
impacted on by the Rietfontein Sand & Klip workings.
Sample EUF-7 is a spring located upstream of the Robertson Dam. The spring has
acidic water, however all the remaining parameters are within the Drinking water
standards. The sulphate concentration is 45mg/l, this is well within the SANS 241:
Drinking water standards but is slightly elevated compared to other water samples
in the area.
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Pan (dry) is the water sample of the pan taken in the dry season. The conductivity,
total dissolved solids, sodium, fluoride, chloride, iron and sulphate exceed SANS
standards. Two samples were taken at the pan to represent both the dry and wet
seasons. Pans, being isolated systems, are highly affected by rainfall and
evaporation; hence during the year the pan’s water levels fluctuate dramatically.
During the dry season there is limited rainfall and hence the dilution potential in the
pan is limited, which is exacerbated by concentration through evaporation.
Minerals in the pan then become more concentrated, resulting in elevated
constituents in the water quality. During the wet season; rainfall increases, the water
level in the pan increases and the minerals in the pan become diluted. It must be
stressed that even though the water in the pan exceeds the SANS 241 Standards
this does not mean the pan is polluted. Water in the pan is not suitable for
consumption but the water quality in the pan is suitable to support ecosystem
functioning in the pan.
The last water sample was taken at a sump at the current Graspan Colliery’s
opencast area. The conductivity, total dissolved solids, manganese, and sulphate
exceed the SANS Drinking water standards.
Stiff patterns as represented in Figure 11, indicate that the pan water quality, during the dry
season, and the water in the adjacent Graspan pit have different signatures. The pan sample
contains relatively high sodium, potassium and chloride concentrations, whereas the pit water
has very little salts. The pan water has limited calcium and magnesium concentrations whilst
the pit has these constituents in higher concentrations. Both samples have elevated sulphate
concentrations, pyrite is the main contributor to sulphate in the pit water, however the
elevated sulphate in the pan water may simply be due to the re-concentration of the ion due
to lack of water in the pan during the dry season.
In this case the water in the pit is polluted by coal related activities, whereas the pan is naturally
contaminated with salt and sulphates due to re-concentration of dissolved minerals.
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Table 4: Surface water sample data (highlighted values exceed SANS 241: 2011 standards)
Parameter SANS 241 (2011) DWA EUF-2 EUF-4 EUF-5 EUF-7 EUF-11 SW1 Pan (dry) Pan (wet) Graspan Pit
Domestic
pH-Value at 25 ° C >5 to <9.7 6.0 - 9.0 6.59 3.68 6.40 4.49 5.70 7.10 8.60 7.40 8.20
Conductivity at 25° C in <170 mg/l 0 - 70 6.54 48.20 1.69 15.50 3.84 17.80 2251 28.00 335.00
mS/m
Total Dissolved Solids <1200 mg/l 0 - 450 54.00 14.00 22.00 77.00 19.00 107.00 16948 149.00 2837.00
Total Hardness as 0 - 100 17.31 186.51 4.29 40.00 7.00 54.00 1040 33.00 2260.00
CaCO3
Total Alkalinity as NA 26.00 0.00 5.00 3.81 4.98 18.60 725 83.50 288.00
CaCO3
Nitrate as N* <11 mg/l ≤11 <0.1 0.11 0.77 0.29 1.26 0.25 0.2 0.26 0.99
Calcium as Ca 0 - 32 4.18 43.70 1.34 7.94 0.98 9.46 101 6.71 409.00
Magnesium as Mg 0 - 30 1.67 18.80 0.23 4.84 1.03 7.40 115 3.90 300.00
Sodium as Na <200 mg/l 0 - 100 0.10 10.40 4.84 6.87 1.92 10.80 4875 36.20 43.10
Potassium as K 0 - 50 3.15 8.42 1.34 1.82 2.54 2.27 880 14.70 32.50
Aluminium as Al <0.3 mg/l 0 - 0.15 0.12 1.49 0.08 0.05 <0.003 <0.003 0.16 <0.003 <0.003
Iron as Fe <2 mg/l 0 - 0.1 0.98 0.24 0.01 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 3.28 0.34 <0.003
Manganese as Mn <0.5 mg/l 0 - 0.05 0.06 2.15 0.02 0.07 <0.001 <0.001 1.03 <0.001 0.62
Fluoride as F <1.5 mg/l 0-1 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.06 0.06 0.12 4.60 0.33 0.17
Chloride as Cl <300 mg/l 0 - 100 10.10 5.00 4.16 7.07 4.04 5.46 7251 27.50 71.30
Sulphate as SO4 <500 mg/l 0 - 200 3.68 199.00 4.40 45.00 0.04 58.50 1924 7.80 1800.00
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6 AQUIFER CHARACTERIZATION
Aquifer Systems
Two distinct and superimposed groundwater systems are present in the geological formations
of the coalfields in South Africa, as described by Hodgson and Grobbelaar (1999). They are
the upper weathered aquifer and the system in the fractured rock below (Golder 2018).
The upper aquifer is associated with the weathered horizon. In boreholes, water may often be
found at this horizon. The aquifer is recharged by rainfall. Rainfall that infiltrates into the
weathered rock reaches impermeable layers of solid rock underneath the weathered zone.
Movement of groundwater on top of the solid rock is lateral and in the direction of the surface
slope.
This water reappears on surface at fountains, where barriers such as dolerite dykes, paleo-
topographic highs in the bedrock obstruct the flow paths, or where the surface topography
cuts into the groundwater level at streams.
The weathered zone is generally low yielding, because of its insignificant thickness. Few farmers
therefore tap this water by boreholes. The quality of the water is normally excellent and can
be attributed to many years of dynamic groundwater flow through the weathered sediments.
Leachable salts in this zone have been washed from the system long ago (IGS, 2008).
The fractured aquifer system (~ 15 to 40m) present in the fresh rock below the weathered zone
are well cemented, and do not allow significant water flow. All groundwater movement
therefore occurs along secondary structures such as fractures, cracks and joints in the rock.
These structures are best developed in sandstone and quartzite; hence the better water
yielding properties of the latter rock type.
Dolerite sills and dikes are generally impermeable to water movement, except in the
weathered state. In terms of water quality, the fractured aquifer always contains higher salt
loads than the upper weathered aquifer. The higher salt concentrations are attributed to a
longer contact time between the water and rock (IGS, 2008).
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Figure 12 below is illustrating the aquifer classification of different areas in South Africa. It can
be concluded that the mining site is comprised of minor aquifers and the dominant water
source is surface water. The aquifer classification is interpreted below by Table 5. Minor aquifer
is a type of aquifer that is Moderately yielding aquifer of acceptable quality or high yielding
aquifer of poor-quality water.
Aquifer Description
Sole source An aquifer used to supply 50% or more of urban domestic water for a given
aquifer area, for which there are no reasonably available alternative sources
should this aquifer be impacted upon or depleted.
Major aquifer High-yielding aquifer of acceptable quality water.
region
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Minor aquifer Moderately yielding aquifer of acceptable quality or high yielding aquifer
region of poor-quality water.
Poor aquifer Insignificantly yielding aquifer of good quality or moderately yielding
region aquifer of poor quality, or aquifer that will never be utilised for water supply
and that will not contaminate other aquifers.
Special aquifer An aquifer designated as such by the Minister of Water
region
Aspect Description
The weathered The Ecca sediments are weathered to depths between 5 and 12m
aquifer
below surface throughout the area. The upper aquifer is associated
with this weathered zone and water is often found within a few meters
below surface. This aquifer is recharged by rainfall. The percentage
based on work in other parts of the country by Kirchner et al. (1991)
and Bredenkamp (1995). It should, however, be emphasized that in a
weathered system, such as the Ecca sediments, highly variable
recharge values can be found from one area to the next.
This is attributed to the composition of the weathered sediments,
which range from coarse-grained sand to fine clay. Based on the
hydrogeological information obtained from the boreholes drilled at
Hendrina, the thickness of the weathered zone was approximated to
15m.
Fractured Ecca The pores within the Ecca sediments are well-cemented and do not
Aquifer
allow any significant flow of water. All groundwater movement
therefore occurs along secondary structures, such as fractures and
joints in the sediments. These structures are better developed in
competent rocks, such as sandstone; hence the better water-yielding
properties of the latter rock type. It should, however, be emphasized
that not all secondary structures are water bearing. Many of these
structures are constricted because of compressional forces that act
within the earth's crust.
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Coal Seam Aquifer Hodgson et al. (1998) states that of all the unweathered sediments in
the Ecca, the coal seams often have the highest hydraulic
conductivity. Since the aquifer permeability and storativity of the
seam will also be enhanced by mine excavation, it has been
simulated as a separate aquifer with an approximate permeability of
0.1m/d. This permeability is in the same order of magnitude estimated
for the coal seams by Hodgson et al. (1998).
7 GROUNDWATER MODELLING
MODFLOW software is the chosen software to model groundwater flow and contaminant
transport in this situation. The finite difference numerical model was created using the US
Department of Defence Groundwater Modelling System (GMS9.2) as Graphical User Interface
(GUI) for the well-established MODFLOW and MT3DMS numerical codes.
MODFLOW is a 3D, cell-centred, finite difference, saturated flow model developed by the
United States Geological Survey. MODFLOW can perform both steady state and transient
analyses and has a wide variety of boundary conditions and input options. It was developed
by McDonald and Harbaugh of the US Geological Survey in 1984 and underwent eight overall
updates since. The latest update (MODFLOW-NWT) incorporates several improvements
extending its capabilities considerably, the most important being the introduction of the
Newton formulation of MODFLOW. This dramatically improved the handling of dry cells that
has been a problematic issue in MODFLOW in the past.
MT3DMS is a 3-D model for the simulation of advection, dispersion, and chemical reactions of
dissolved constituents in groundwater systems. MT3DMS uses a modular structure similar to the
structure utilized by MODFLOW and is used in conjunction with MODFLOW in a two-step flow
and transport simulation. Heads are computed by MODFLOW during the flow simulation and
utilized by MT3DMS as the flow field for the transport portion of the simulation.
Elevation data is crucial for developing a credible numerical model, as the groundwater table
in its natural state tends to follow topography. The best currently available elevation data is
derived from the SRTM (Shuttle Radar Tomography Mission) DEM (Digital Elevation Model) data.
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The SRTM consisted of a specially modified radar system that flew on board the Space Shuttle
Endeavour during an 11-day mission in February of 2000, during which elevation data was
obtained on a near-global scale to generate the most complete high-resolution digital
topographic database of Earth. Data is available on a grid of 30 meters in the USA and 90
meters in all other areas.
During model setup, the conceptual model is translated into a numerical model. This stage
entails selecting the model domain, defining the model boundary conditions, discretizing the
data spatially and over time, defining the initial conditions, selecting the aquifer type, and
preparing the model input data. The above conditions together with the input data are used
to simulate the groundwater flow in the model domain for pre-mining steady state conditions.
An aquifer system with two stratigraphic units is bounded by no-flow boundaries on the North
and South sides. The West and East sides are bounded by rivers, which are in full hydraulic
contact with the aquifer and can be considered as fixed-head boundaries. The hydraulic
heads on the west and east boundaries are 10m and 5m above reference level, respectively.
The aquifer system is unconfined and anisotropic. The horizontal hydraulic conductivities of the
first stratigraphic units is 0.0001 m/s. Vertical hydraulic conductivity is assumed to be 10 percent
of the horizontal hydraulic conductivity. The effective porosity is 25 percent. The elevation of
the ground surface is 30m. A constant recharge rate of 0.001925 m/d is applied to the aquifer.
A numerical model has to be developed for this site to calculate groundwater flow field; we
will use MT3D to simulate the contaminant transport. To demonstrate the use of the transport
models, we assume that the pollutant is dissolved into groundwater at a rate of 1×10-4
μg/s/m2.
The initial concentration, molecular diffusion coefficient, and decay rate are assumed to be
zero. We will calculate the concentration distribution after a simulation time of 5,10 and 50
years and display the breakthrough curves (concentration versus time) at two points.
The conceptual model was transformed into a numerical model following the characterization
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of the aquifers, contaminant sources and groundwater receptors, so that the groundwater
flow conditions, and mass transport can be solved numerically. A conceptual model is a
simplified, but representative description of the groundwater system that illustrates the
interaction of the sources, pathways, and receptors at the site.
Any entity that contributes to the groundwater quantity and/or quality is represented
by the sources.
Aquifers through which the groundwater and contaminants migrate would be the
pathways and
The receptors are humans, rivers or natural ecosystems that depend on the
groundwater and will be impacted negatively if the water is depleted by dewatering
or is contaminated.
As illustrated in the figure below, an environmental risk exists only if the three components of a
conceptual model (source, pathway, and receptor) are linked.
7.4.1 Source
Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd project is a proposed mine, at the time of compiling this report it was
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not operational yet. Numerous contamination sources are forecasted within the mining permit
area, including the plant area, pollution control dams, overburden and discard dumps,
rehabilitated opencast, and operational opencast areas. The workshops and diesel bay
facilities are also likely to be petroleum hydrocarbon contaminant sources.
The pollution control dams will be lined with either a clay or HDPE liner. During the operational
phase of the opencast mining, the mined-out areas will be backfilled with waste rock material
as well as coal discard and slurry.
7.4.2 Pathway
The proposed Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd mine is situated within the Karoo Supergroup
weathered and fractured rock aquifer, a typical unconfined to semi-confined aquifer.
Groundwater flow occurs mainly within joints, fault zones and bedding plane contacts. The
hydraulic conductivity of the shallow and deep Karoo aquifers range between 0.01 to 0.6
m/day, based on aquifer tests conducted previously (GCS, 2014). These values are typical of
Karoo type aquifers and correspond with the values identified in previous studies.
7.4.3 Receptor
Contamination from the mining area will be contained within the mining permit. There will be
several monitoring boreholes within the mining permit to trace how the water is being
impacted by contaminants, particularly at the plant and PCD areas. Sulphate concentrations
will be monitored as the main likely contaminant to cause acid mine drainage.
It is likely that preferential flow paths along faults and dolerite intrusion related to fracturing is
not significant in the area based on the available data. While it is still anticipated that localized
preferential flow zones will exist in relation to dolerite dykes, these zones have not been
recorded and it is thought that they are not well developed.
Drainage is anticipated to occur towards the low-lying areas such as rivers and streams. Some
of these streams could be impacted by contaminated seepage and decant in the future. It
must be noted that other mines located in the area may also impact on these drainage
networks.
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Groundwater flow modelling can be represented by finite difference method or finite element
method.
Prior to the simulation of the mining and dewatering activities, a baseline (pre-mining) steady
state groundwater flow model was set-up and calibrated. The objective of the steady state
model is to simulate the undisturbed groundwater system in the region prior to
commencement of mining operations. The impacts of mining activities can then be
determined by comparing the transient state results with the steady state results.
Groundwater flow model was developed to determine the flow direction as well as flow
velocity of water before the mining activity could commence.
Diffusion is one of the transport of solutes together with, advection and dispersion (Duriez,
2005). The groundwater flow model formed the basis of this contaminant transport model.
Taking sulphate as the main contaminant at the mine at a concentration of 12500µm/m3 and
analyzing the contaminant movement for 5 years.
According to (Duriez, 2005), this type of transport process called diffusion, occurs when a
contaminant moves from areas of high concentration to an area of low concentration. And
that is how the flow of contaminant is taking place here. As the contaminant spreads out inside
the aquifer when moving, it decreases the maximum concentration with time.
Potential implications of incorrectly assigning the diffusion for a contaminant transport model
Incorrectly assigning a parameter can lead to errors when interpreting results and
doing predictions. This can also cause inadequacies and uncertainties in the model
results.
This can also affect the direction of spreading of the plume which is supposed to spread
downstream or upstream depending on the concentration gradient and velocity
vectors.
The incorrect diffusion rates can cost the people who will use the model to be misled
and use a lot of money based on false evidence. It can also lead to flow of
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contaminant being deduced as too quick or slow, without checking other aspects
influencing diffusion.
7.7.1 Pre-mining
Before any mining activity can take place, the surrounding environment and the groundwater
will not be affected by solute contamination from the mine. The concentration of possible
contaminants is assumed to be zero, therefore we will only have a groundwater flow model
illustrating how the groundwater is flowing before any mining activity commence.
Data:
The model below illustrates two constant head boundaries on the east and western side on
the model, depicted by blue solid line. Water will eventually flow towards these boundaries as
they act as sinks & sources during modelling, and the head is kept constant throughout. The
arrows illustrate the flow direction as well as flow velocity. Big arrows illustrate high flow velocity
and small arrows illustrates high flow velocities. Water flows with high velocities nearby the
constant head boundaries. This model illustrates an aerial extent of 3km 2. The solid light blue
line illustrates the depression that is located on the south eastern side of the mining permit,
evident from the hydrological map in Figure 3.
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Office No. 16, First Floor (South Block) Corridor Hill Crossing, 09 Langa Crescent, Corridor Hill, eMalahleni, 1035.
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
Diffusion is one of the transport of solutes together with, advection and dispersion (Duriez,
2005). The groundwater flow model formed the basis of this contaminant transport model.
Taking a soluble parameter as the main contaminant at a concentration of 12500µm/m3 and
analyzing the contaminant movement for 5 years.
According to (Duriez, 2005), this type of transport process called diffusion, occurs when a
contaminant moves from areas of high concentration to an area of low concentration. And
that is how the flow of contaminant is taking place here. As the contaminant spreads out,
inside the aquifer when moving, it decreases the maximum concentration with time.
Potential implications of incorrectly assigning the diffusion for a contaminant transport model
Incorrectly assigning a parameter can lead to errors when interpreting results and
doing predictions. This can also cause inadequacies and uncertainties in the model
results.
This can also affect the direction of spreading of the plume which is supposed to spread
downstream or upstream depending on the concentration gradient and velocity
vectors.
The incorrect diffusion rates can cost the people who will use the model to be misled
and use a lot of money based on false evidence. It can also lead to flow of
contaminant being deduced as too quick or slow, without checking other aspects
influencing diffusion.
The transport models below are simulated for 5, 50, 100 and 500 years which will be for future
post-operational phase. The transport models below show concentration of contaminant
illustrated by the red grids. Governed by the groundwater flow, this contaminant plume that
will be generated within the permit will not reach the depression within the next 100years.
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Groundwater management strategies for most mining activities are limited and emphasis falls
on prevention of contamination rather than the treatment thereof. Early detection of
contamination is the key to react and manage any possible sources of pollution effectively.
This will assist in identifying potential future impacts from terminal operations on the
groundwater environments.
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One litre plastic bottles, with a plastic cap and no liner within the cap are required. Glass
bottles are required for organic constituents to be tested for. Sample bottles should be
marked clearly with the borehole name, date of sampling, water level depth and the
sampler’s name.
Water levels (mbgl) should be measured prior to taking the sample, using a water level
meter. Each borehole to be sampled should be purged (to ensure sampling of the aquifer
and not stagnant water in the casing) using a submersible pump or in the event of a small
diameter borehole, a clean disposable polyethylene bailer. At least three borehole
volumes of water should be removed through purging; or through continuous water quality
monitoring, until the electrical conductivity value stabilizes Metal samples must be filtered
in the field to remove clay suspensions.
Samples should be kept cool in a cooler box in the field and kept cool prior to being
submitted to the laboratory; and
The pH and EC meter used for field measurements should be calibrated daily using
standard solutions obtained from the instrument supplier.
Sampling Locations
Data Management
In any project, good hydrogeological decisions require good information developed from raw
data. The production of good, relevant, and timely information is the key to achieve qualified
long-term and short-term plans. For the minimization of groundwater contamination, it is
necessary to utilize all relevant groundwater data.
An excel-based database during the course of this investigation and it is recommended that
Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd utilizes this database and continuously update and manage it as
new data becomes available. Monitoring results will be captured in an electronic database
as soon as results become available allowing:
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Based on the recorded water quality data, the data management functions as described will
be carried out and reported to mine management on a monthly basis. The contents of the
report should include the monthly water monitoring results and trends at surface points, as well
as comments on the effectiveness of the mitigation measures and monitoring program.
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Monitoring boreholes should be located around the mining Pit, on upper levels and near the
river to monitor the flow direction, Rate of water flow as well as water quality.
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The following major groundwater impacts are expected during the life of mine:
Dewatering (water users in close proximity or downstream user): Analytical solutions and
readily available groundwater data of the Mpumalanga coalfields were used to calculate the
possible drawdown after one year of opencast mining. The result of this is indicative and might
vary slightly in reality. A radius of influence of approximately 500 m was derived from this
method using generic existing hydraulic conductivity and storativity values. This could have
associated impacts on existing adjacent water users.
Acid Mine Drainage (risk ABA): Studies undertaken indicated that the No. 2 coal seam could
have a high acid generating potential. Geological core from the coal seam, interburden and
overburden have been tested for acid base accounting and neutralization potential. Results
indicated that a low acid generating potential can be expected from the No. 4 coal seam
and host rock. The banded sandstone indicated to have a medium neutralization potential
that will help neutralize the acid generation.
Post mining water management (flooding decanting and downstream impacts): High
recharge values are expected through the back-filled areas and high hydraulic conductivity
values can be expected from the spoils and waste rock. Surface and coal seam elevations
indicate three possible decant points on site thus appropriate mitigation measures will have to
be put in place to manage the water after mine closure. AMD could impact on the water
quality while potentially negatively impacting on receiving water users. More in depth studies
will have to be performed during the operational phase to determine the geochemical
characteristics of the groundwater during and after mining has taken place.
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Severity of impact RATING Spatial scope RATING Duration of RATING Frequency of Activity RATING Frequency of RATING
of impact Impact Impact
Insignificant/ 1 Activity 1 1 day to 1 month 1 Annually or less/ low 6 1 Almost never 1
non-harmful specific
Small / potential 2 Mine specific( 2 1 month to 1 year 2 Monthly/temporary 2 Highly unlikely 2
harmful within the mine
boundary)
Significant/ 3 Local area 3 1 year to 10 years 3 Monthly/ Infrequent 3 Unlikely 3
Slightly harmful (within 5km of
the mine
boundary)
harmful 4 Regional 4 Operational life 4 Weekly/life of 4 Likely 4
operation/regularly/likely
extremely harmful 5 National 5 Post-closure/ 5 Daily/ permanent/high 5 Highly likely/ 5
Permanent
The Environmental Significance is derived from the below mentioned variables:
Environmental Significance = (Severity of Impact +Spatial Scope + Duration of Scope) X (Frequency of Activity +Frequency Of impact)
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
(Frequency Of Activity (Fa) + Frequency Of Impact(Fi))
3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45
4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48 52 56 60
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75
6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72 78 84 90
7 14 21 28 35 42 49 56 63 70 77 84 91 98 105
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impact
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1 Construction phase
The development of hard paved areas during infrastructure construction and haul road
construction lowers the recharge of aquifers due to increased runoff. The establishment of the
opencast areas is expected to have a negative effect on the nearby aquifers within the
immediate area which can cause lowering of water levels on neighboring boreholes
The operation of the fuel and lubricants storage facility has the potential for causing
contamination of surface water due to infrastructure failure (emergency), leakage or spillages
during normal operation. The potential for the incorrect disposal of spill absorbing material is
included in normal operation.
The operation of offices, ablutions and maintenance workshops has the potential for the
contamination of groundwater due to incorrect disposal of domestic and hazardous wastes,
incorrect handling of workshop effluent spills and leaks. The use of nitrate-based explosives
during blasting for the establishment of the opencast areas has the potential to cause surface
water pollution due to the addition of nitrates to water.
The establishment of hard paved areas during infrastructure construction and haul road
construction reduces the recharge of aquifers due to increased runoff. The removal of
vegetation during topsoil and overburden pre-stripping for haul road construction reduces the
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Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
recharge of rainwater to aquifers due to increased run-off. Mining of the opencast areas has
the effect of dewatering adjacent aquifers or lowering the water table.
The spillage of ammonium nitrate-based explosives during charging of holes, misfires and
incomplete combustion of explosives may lead to an increase in nitrate levels in groundwater.
The operation of the fuel and lubricants storage facility has the potential for causing
contamination of groundwater due to either an infrastructure failure (emergency) or spillages
during normal operation. Included in normal operation is the potential for the incorrect
disposal of spill absorbing material.
AMD formation from spoil piles, exposed shale and backfilled spoils and discard in rehabilitated
areas will affect groundwater quality through the acidification of groundwater and the
leaching of salts and heavy metals from rock. Depending on the buffering capacity of the host
rock, AMD will either result in the formation of low pH, high dissolved salt and heavy metal
content water (insufficient buffering capacity) or the formation of neutral pH, high salt
(including sodium) water, if high buffering capacity exists. Polluted groundwater generated in
the opencast areas are not connected to any underground mining areas and will not form
part of the inter mine flow.
Impact on water quality and erosion as a result of the pipeline breaking and spillage to
non-perennial streams
Pump failure will result in dirty water accumulation in the pit, leading to uncontrolled dirty
water management and associated pollution
Impact on water quality and availability as a result in ineffective dirty water separation,
and dirty water entering into the wetland
High rate of ground water ingress causing flooding of the pit
The rainfall water within the designated dirty water area of the pit area that forms part of
the MAR to the local water courses will be removed from the catchment. This will result in
a lower intensity potential on the local surface water resource
Increase in volume of contaminated water that needs to be managed within the footprint
Erosion of stream banks as a result of crossings and diversions leading to siltation of the
streams
Impacts on surface water resources quality as a result of incorrect waste management
practices and pollution.
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The quality of groundwater will be impacted upon by mining. The mining area might produce
a seepage zone or decant as the recharge to opencast workings have increased by the
disturbance of the strata. There are no large-scale groundwater users in the area but poor-
quality groundwater emerging as seeps into the surface water environment can be seen as a
negative, long term impact.
The long-term water quality impact for coal mining is the generation of AMD water. Opencast
pits must be rehabilitated in such a way that recharge to the backfilled pit areas are limited to
an absolute minimum. This would include shaping to allow surface water to drain away from
the opencast pit areas, compaction of materials, suitable soil cover and vegetation of the
rehabilitated areas to intercept recharge. In the opencast areas water levels will rise until the
decant level is reached. Water quality in the opencast pits is not expected to be suitable for
use and these areas will be sterilized in terms of available groundwater quantity.
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Due to the proposed mining the cumulative impacts could be of a quantitative and qualitative
nature. The aquifers within the region are classified as minor aquifer systems and their main
function is a domestic water supply source as well as supplying base flow to the surface water
environment. This will result in a positive impact locally and could see the importance of
groundwater increasing as a potential source within the catchment.
However, the water quality within the workings could be good or deteriorate depending on
the geochemical characteristics of the material. This could in turn result in surface water users
being put under pressure should the decant water quality lead to the deterioration of surface
water resources in the catchment. The cumulative impact on the catchment will have to be
considered for mining, agriculture and the remainder of the current surface and groundwater
uses in the Olifants water management area.
During the operational phase of the opencast mining, the mined-out areas will be
backfilled with waste rock material as well as coal discard and slurry cake. The
groundwater levels in the rehabilitated backfilled areas will rebound upon the cessation of
dewatering and recover to a new equilibrium level, which could be the decant elevation.
Above the equilibrated groundwater level, the backfilled material will be unsaturated, and
the potential oxidation of sulphur minerals within the pit back fill or exposed along the pit
walls could likely impact the overall mine water quality.
The flow of water in this area is unevenly orientated, and generally flows towards the water
bodies.
From the MODFLOW simulation models, the contaminant plume will not reach the water
bodies in 100 years.
The simulated dewatering will impact on wetlands and baseflow to rivers above and in the
vicinity of the mine voids.
Mine water decant is likely to occur, because the mining permit is in Mpumalanga where
there is high rainfall, high recharge rate and low evapotranspiration.
Since it is inevitable that an operation of this scale will impact on the groundwater regime,
measures to manage and reduce these impacts to the absolute minimum must be
considered.
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Contamination from the mining areas will be contained within the mining permit.
No hydrogeological information is available for the sills, dykes, and faults, which are
reported to have a large influence on the modelling results.
Impacts associated with the groundwater and wetland interlinkage will be taken into
consideration.
10.2 Recommendations
Aspect Recommendation
Monitoring Conduct water monitoring and implement remedial actions as required
and effective rehabilitation to as close to pre-mining conditions as
practically possible.
It is recommended that the monitoring network be placed at the
boundaries; north, south, east and west of the proposed mining permit.
The construction must be overseen by a qualified Hydrogeologist to
monitor pollution in the upper weathered aquifer as well as the lower
fractured aquifer.
A monitoring network should be dynamic. This means that the network
should be extended over time to accommodate the migration of
contaminants through the aquifer as well as the expansion of
infrastructure and/or addition of possible pollution sources. An audit on
the monitoring network should be conducted annually
Modelling The numerical model should be recalibrated as soon as more
hydrogeological data such as monitoring holes are made available. This
would enhance model predictions and certainty
Water Prevention of pollution of surface water resources and impacts on other
contamination surface water users by training of workers to prevent pollution,
equipment and vehicle maintenance, fast and effective clean-up of
spills, effective waste management, manage clean and dirty water in
accordance
Flow of water The disturbance of streams and surface drainage patterns and reduction
in flow to downstream must be mitigated through careful design of
ephemeral stream diversion that minimizes impacts on the downstream
environment, limit activities and infrastructure within wetland and
watercourses and their floodlines and implementation of storm water
management plan to divert clean water.
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Office No. 16, First Floor (South Block) Corridor Hill Crossing, 09 Langa Crescent, Corridor Hill, eMalahleni, 1035.
Tell No.: 013 692 0041 Cell No.: 072-081-6682/078-2727-839 Fax No.: 086-514-4103 E-mail address: kenneth@singoconsulting.co.za
Hydrogeological study for coal mining permit of Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd
11 REFERENCES
1. Barnard, H.C., (2000). An explanation of the 1:500 000 General Hydrogeological Map.
Johannesburg 2526. DWAF
2. Bosman, C., 2018. Groundwater Governance, s.l.: Carin Bosman Sustainable Solutions.
3. Botha, J. & Cloot , A., 2004. Karoo Aquifers ; Deformations, Hydraulic and Mechanical
Properties, s.l.: s.n.
4. Botha, J. F. et al., 1998. Karro Aquifers; Their Geology, Geometry and Physical Properties,
s.l.: s.n.
5. Duriez, S., 2005. On the use of groundwater contaminant transport modeling in risk
management, sweden: s.n.
8. Groundwater Management for Hygiene and Sanitation, 2011 ; IWSD, Physical and Quality
Groundwater monitoring information for effective management, Harare June 2011.
9. Jeffares & Green , 2015. Appendix C: Technical Engineering Report & Geotechnical and
Thermal Report, Lephalale: s.n.
10. Jeffrey, L.S., 2005. Characterization of coal resources of South Africa. J.S. Afr. Inst. Min.
Metal, pp. 95102.
11. Red hill mining lease. N.d. Mine water management overview report, Appendix I2.,
Environmental impact statement.
12. Wildland hydrology, 2011. Level I Field survey method, s.l.: Wildland Hydrology
13. Vegter JR., 2003. hydrogeology of groundwater region 19 Lowveld., WRC Report No. TT
208/03
14. Vegter et al., (1968). Boorplekaanwysings vir water op Serie Ecca en meegaande dolerite
van SuidoosTrabsvaal. Bulletin 50. Geologiese opname.
15. Visser et al., (1949). Die geologie van die terrain besuide Ermelo. Toeligging van Blad No.
64 (Ermelo) Geologiese Opname.\
16. Greenshields, H.D.,1986. Eastern Transvaal Coalfield, in: C.R. Anhaeusser, S.Maske(Eds.),
Mineral Deposits of Southern Africa.Vol.II. Geological Society of South Africa,
Johannesburg, pp. 1995–201
17. Cadle, A.B., Cairncross, B., Christie, A.D.M. and Roberts, D.L., 1990. The Permo-Triassic coal
bearing deposits of the Karoo Basin, Southern Africa. Economic Geology Research Unit-
Information Circular No. 218: Geology Department, University of the Witwatersrand, 38 pp.
67
Office No. 16, First Floor (South Block) Corridor Hill Crossing, 09 Langa Crescent, Corridor Hill, eMalahleni, 1035.
Tell No.: 013 692 0041 Cell No.: 072-081-6682/078-2727-839 Fax No.: 086-514-4103 E-mail address: kenneth@singoconsulting.co.za
29°40'0"E
DRIEFONTEINCo-ordinates
398 JS Co-ordinates
ENQABENI
434 6/398
Decimal Degree WG 29
MINING (PTY) LTD
STERKSTROOM 400 JS 4/400 A 25.76186 S 29.63969 E A -64173.71 Y 2850607.66 X
3/400 7/400 B 25.75973 S 29.63966 E B -64171.85 Y 2850371.67 X APPLICATION FOR
C 25.75962 S 29.64278 E C -64484.92 Y 2/411 X
2850361.00 MINING PERMIT AREA
D 25.76030 S 29.64283 E D -64489.57 Y 2850436.36 X A portion of the remaining extent
A 25.76186 S 29.63969 E A -64173.71 Y 2850607.66 X of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS
4/402
GEMSFONTEIN 411 JS
Legend
1/411 Mining Permit Area
INSET
NOT TO SCALE
Cadastral boundaries
C Magisterial District
B
1:50 000 Map Reference
25°45'0"S
25°45'0"S
4/407
1/409 D
JS BEESTEPAN 1211 JS
BEESTEPAN 1211 JS
7/407 B C A
9/407 8/407 TUETFONTEIN 407 JS D
A 11/410 The figure lettered A, B, C, D, A represents an area in extent of
4,9246 hectares, comprising of a portion of the remaining extent
of the farm Beestepan 1211 JS, Magisterial District of Middelburg,
13/410 in respect of which Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd apply for a Mining
11/407 6/407 Permit in terms of Section 27 of the Mineral and Petroleum
Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act 28 of 2002), subject to
Regulation 17 of the Mine Health and Safety Act, 1996 (Act 29 of
1996), excluding any area within 100 metres of any public road,
Middelburg 1/410
railway, cemetery, residential area or public area
Co-ordinates supplied by the client and were not physically
13/407 surveyed and are therefore an estimation only
3/407
3/413
_____________________________ _______________________
C Mc Gee - Compiled and Drawn Date
406
2/406 _____________________________ _______________________
Enqabeni Mining (Pty) Ltd Date
413 4/413
439
ZAAIPLAATS 439 JS
437
436
2/436
2/413
0 0.25 0.5
² 1
1:30,000
1.5
C. MC Gee - Compiled and Draft
Mobile: 082 940 9898 E-Mail: blue.700626@gmail.com
2
Kilometers
Emergency
Environmental emergencies occur over the short term and require an immediate response.
A mine, as part of its management tools, especially if it is ISO 9000 and ISO 14001 compliant,
should have an Emergency Response Plan (ERP). If one does not exist then one should be
compiled and disseminated to all employees and contractors and in the event of an
emergency, the emergency response plan should be consulted.
In the event of an injury to any person, a mine employee, contractor or visitor to site, the
following procedure should be followed:
Take down details from the person reporting the incident including the following:
▪ Telephone number of the person reporting the incident;
▪ Nature of injuries to accident victim;
▪ If assistance is required from the paramedic;
▪ Where the accident victim is located;
▪ If transport is required to evacuate patient; and
▪ Instruct the person reporting the incident to leave a messenger by the phone.
If the injuries are serious responsible person must contact the relevant hospital/clinic or
nearest paramedics. Await paramedics and instruct them to proceed to the accident site.
Notify security and inform them of ambulance arrangements and where the said vehicle
must go to.
If necessary provide a guide, at security gate, to escort the ambulance or paramedics to the
required location. Inform your manager or the next senior manager of the accident.
NB: The procedure does not change because there is more than one accident victim. One
victim or 20 victims must be handled in the same manner.
First Phase:
Take down the following details of the incident from the relevant individual/s who are
reporting an incident:
▪ Nature of the incident, explosion, fire etc;
▪ Location of the incident, explosion, fire etc;
▪ If there are casualties and the nature and extent of their injuries;
▪ Ask if the reportee requires assistance (rescue team, doctor, paramedic, transport
etc);
▪ The phone number of the reportee; and
▪ Name of person reporting the incident.
Based on the above-mentioned information, the official on duty will take a decision whether
to evacuate any or all other work areas of the mine, making use of the current escape plan
for the section or area. Report the incident to the mine manager and the Subordinate
Manager. If the mine manager is unobtainable then report the incident to the next lowest
level of official (engineer, mine overseer, safety and environmental manager, etc).
Begin a logbook or record of events putting in detail of times and who said what, where and
when, going back to the original individual/s who reported the incident.
NB:
- The official will assume the position of the incident controller until relieved of that
position by the newly appointed incident controller, i.e. (mine manager, engineer,
safety and environmental manager, etc).
- It is important to ensure that all phone messages are kept to a minimum duration
throughout the incident period.
Second Phase:
If necessary send for Emergency services, fire brigade, police, etc. Give feedback to newly
appointed incident coordinator once he is present on the mine and hand over role to new
incident coordinator. Follow instructions of Mine Manager. Refer all media enquiries to
head office legal department. Remain in position at control room until relieved. Brief official
on current situation.
NB: Remember to maintain the logbook at all times throughout the duration of the incident.
The process that will be used to identify emergency situations at the mining operations will
be conducted in terms of the Aspects Registers and may include the following emergencies:
The necessary actions required, as well as the responsible person for ensuring that the
actions are followed through and the reporting requirements are adhered to, to ensure
effective and efficient response to each of the environmental emergency situations listed
above are set out in this procedure.
Accidents:
In the case of a medical accident or problem, the mine should have at least a first aid kit
available and a First Aid officer should be on duty at all times. It is preferential that the mine
has a First Aid room or a small clinic if possible depending on the scale of the operation. In
the event of an emergency a checklist of emergency response units must be consulted and
the relevant units notified. In this case, many of the emergency services will be sourced
from the nearest main town.
Fire:
Veld fires and fires resulting from other sources must be handled with extreme caution. Fire
extinguishers should be placed around the mine. The procedure to be followed involves the
following:
▪ In the event of a fire, an alarm should be activated to alert all employees and
contractors.
▪ Identify the type of fire and the appropriate extinguishing material. For example
water for a grass fire, and mono ammonium phosphate based fire extinguisher for
chemical and electrical fires.
Flooding:
There is potential for flooding during the rainy season, but particularly November to January
when severe thunderstorms can occur. This could result in a large volume of water flowing
downstream or accumulating in a water containment facility and could cause major damage
to equipment and endanger the lives of employees on site. Procedures must be put in place
to ensure that there is a quick response to flood events and damage is kept to a minimum.
The procedure for flooding includes:
▪ DWA’s flood warning system should be reviewed annually.
▪ Mine management should be made aware of any such event so they can take
appropriate action to ensure production losses are kept to a minimum.
▪ All dams and water containment facilities should have a 0.8 m freeboard and an
overflow or outlet to ensure that no damage occurs to the facilities.
▪ All contaminated water should be contained on site, as far as possible and discharges
to the environment should only occur if absolutely necessary in an extreme flood
event.
Explosions:
Explosions can occur in the plant and workshop areas when working with gas cylinders and
chemicals. These could result in large numbers of employees being injured and requiring
medical assistance. The procedure for explosions includes:
▪ A Proto Team should be ready and deployed for assisting with the evacuation of
employees;
Subsidence:
Subsidence underground can result in injuries to human life and damage to property. The
procedure for subsidence includes:
▪ Alternative evacuation and access routes should be identified and used, should the
way in or out be blocked;
▪ A Proto Team should be ready and deployed for assisting with the location and
extraction of employees trapped underground;
▪ There should be alternative air supply routes should the air supply become damaged
in the rock fall; and
▪ All relevant emergency response units must be notified and hospitals informed of
incoming patients.
6. Reporting
The responsible person will as soon as possible verbally report the occurrence to the Mine
Manager and the Environmental Management Representative. A detailed non-conformance
report will be written by the responsible person and handed in to the Environmental
Department for investigation.
8. Records
Records derived from the implementation of this procedure will be controlled in accordance
with the requirements as defined in the necessary Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
developed, available in the Environmental Management System documents.
Shall enter the incident onto the database in order to monitor the root
causes of incidents. Shall include the reported incidents in an appropriate
monthly/quarterly report. Shall highlight all incidents for discussion at
HSEC meetings.
Surname : Maphoso
2
Interests
➢ Reading
➢ Sports
➢ Traveling
Educational Profile
3
Computer Literacy
Work experience
4
on the environment), Social and Labour Plan, Conduct
Environmental Audit at the Mines(verify the level of compliance to
the approved Environmental Technical Documents thought
checking the levels of dust, water, noise pollution by collecting
samples). liaise with Government Department regarding
Environmental Authorizations and compliances)
2011 BHP Billiton Energy Coal of S.A Environmental Specialist (Ensure compliance with all relevant
legislation. Determine the level compliance in so far as the
requirements are stipulated within the operation and ensures that
appropriate mitigation measures are implemented. Conduct
environmental awareness within the operation through safety
meeting and induction to avoid the degradation of the environment
by contractor and employees. Conduct the audit to determine the
environmental gaps. Provide guidance to the subordinates and the
mine official on dealing with all environmental concern/issues.
Ensures that waste management procedure is implemented even to
the landfill site. Ensures that all the environmental liability is
accounted for and the correct amount is provide to the Department
by the financial section.
2012-2015 Southern Cross Coal (Pty) Ltd Environmental Manager (Ensure compliance with all
environmental regulation in so far as the required licenses are
concern (i.e. water use license, environmental authorization and
waste license). Derive the strategies to junior subordinate to ensure
compliance with all the legal aspects. Obtain and interpret the
monitoring results and ensures that appropriate measures are
implemented. Evaluate and facilitate environmental authorization
applications. Provide guidance to the mining planning department
regarding environmental authorization required prior mining.)
2015-date Ndlelenhle Mining and (Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation. Determine the
Consulting level compliance in so far as the requirements are stipulated within
the operation and ensures that appropriate mitigation measures are
implemented. Conduct environmental awareness within the
operation through safety meeting and induction to avoid the
degradation of the environment by contractor and employees.
Conduct the audit to determine the environmental gaps.
5
References
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