Photo Credit: Papua New Guinea Mine Watch
Small-scale alluvial mining will be regulated, according to an official, since the impact on the environment, people's health, and safety is significant.
Winterford Eko, acting deputy secretary of the Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management Department, said individuals should be informed of the repercussions of a specific activity.
“The Government policy is that the landowners can participate in mining but the health and safety of the people must also be looked after,” he said.
“When they get alluvial mining license, at least go to Wau School of Small-Scale Mining that is operated by Mineral Resources Authority.
“At least get a certificate that tells us that you have a fair idea about conducting that particular activity.
“We need to also regulate for the health and safety of miners,” he said.
Small-scale alluvial miners, according to Eko, are peasants whose lives and environment must be safeguarded.
“Alluvial mining is also included in the newly drafted Mine and Works (Safety and Health) Bill 2021 to address the safety and health aspects of the people and the environment.
“The Bill also covered downstream mineral processing and is in line with the Government’s initiative to encourage gold bullion bank.
“We are so richly blessed as a country with resources.
“Most of the minerals are exported, then refined, processed, and sold back to us.
“So we are looking at downstream processing of our minerals.”
Reference:
The National (11 July 2021). “State to regulate alluvial mining”
