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Tete: Court Orders Vulcan to Suspend Work Due to Environmental Pollution

Tete: Court Orders Vulcan to Suspend Work Due to Environmental Pollution

The Tete Provincial Administrative Court has ordered mining company Vulcan Moçambique to suspend all coal mining activities in sections 4 and 6 of its operation within 72 hours. The decision, dated 18 December 2024, was motivated by a case brought by the Human Rights Association of Tete, which accuses the multinational of causing environmental pollution with a negative impact on the surrounding communities, according to the newspaper O País.

According to the court ruling, it was proven that Vulcan did not implement adequate measures to mitigate the emission of dust from coal mining, damaging the environment and the people living in seven neighbourhoods near the mines. The decision emphasises that the company’s activities violate the environmental standards necessary to protect communities.

In addition to the immediate suspension, Vulcan was ordered to adopt effective measures to reduce pollution levels within 90 days. The court specified that these actions must prioritise the safety and well-being of the affected populations, preventing further negative impacts on the environment.

The company was also ordered to pay court costs of 50,000 meticals. This judgement comes in response to complaints from the Tete Human Rights Association, which defends the rights of affected communities and demands greater environmental responsibility on the part of companies operating in the province.

Coal mining operations in Tete province have often been criticised by activists and residents for high levels of pollution and negative impacts on the quality of life of local populations. The court’s decision is seen as a significant step towards holding mining companies accountable and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Vulcan Mozambique has yet to comment on the case, but now has a short period to comply with the suspension order and present concrete measures to solve the problems identified.

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