JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – A major underground collapse has occurred at Zimbabwe-based platinum producer Zimplats’ Bimha mine, 150 km south-east of Harare, affecting nearly 50% of the mine’s current footprint, the company said on Friday.
As a result of a proactive response by management and the timely evacuation of all personnel, no injuries or damage of mobile equipment were reported.
The collapse, which was triggered by the accelerated deterioration of ground conditions associated with the Mutambara Shear that transgressed through half the mining area, led to the decision to abandon and permanently close about half of the mining footprint area where major falls of ground had occurred, Zimplats said.
“As a result, production from the Bimha mine has been downscaled by 50%, equating to 45 000 oz of platinum-in-matte production. Preliminary estimates indicate that it will take 15 months to reach full production of eight fleets and 50 months to reconnect to the current declines,” the company added.
Zimplats noted that a team of experts from the company, supported by internationally renowned senior experts and consultants, had been engaged to conduct detailed investigations and make recommendations on the appropriate remedial action to return the mine to full production.
Two of the eight fleets that were deployed at Bimha would be reallocated to redeveloping the declines to open up the bottom roadways, while the remaining six fleets would be absorbed either within Bimha or the company’s other mines.
“All statutory notifications have been completed and all emergency systems put on high alert. Daily inspections and reviews continue to be undertaken,” Zimplats said.