Original article: Minera Tres Valles contaminó aguas del estero Quilmenco en Chuchiñí: Preocupación por situación de napas subterráneas
The recent assessment by the General Directorate of Waters (DGA) revealed alarming levels of acidification and heavy metals like iron, aluminum, copper, and manganese in the Quilmenco estuary of Chuchiñí (Coquimbo Region), exceeding legal limits. This contamination incident is linked to a spill caused by Tres Valles mining company.
Local media reported that the contamination occurred following intense rainfall in the area: «The runoff from associated mining pools affected the Quilmenco gorge, which flows through Chuchiñí into the Choapa River. Residents expressed significant concern about using this water source daily, noting changes in water color and a noticeable odor in the environment,» stated Veetv.cl in an article published on July 25.
The mining company confirmed to the same media outlet that it has filed a «self-report» to the Superintendency of the Environment (SMA) regarding these matters.
Following the release of these findings, Senator Daniel Núñez (PC) has called on the Superintendency of the Environment to take action. He stated, «This public agency must assess the conduct of this mining company and how it is failing to comply with its Environmental Qualification Resolution.»
«It must also ensure that immediate, urgent measures are implemented to prevent any risk of further spills and address leakages that the mining company has acknowledged exist during mineral processing,» the senator emphasized.
Milca Ulloa, president of the Rural Potable Water Committee (APR) in Chuchiñí, highlighted that «once again, Tres Valles mining has contributed to the contamination of the Quilmenco estuary, which in turn affects the Choapa River. This means that all the water from Chuchiñí downstream is contaminated.»
The leader expressed concern over the situation of their groundwater, stating, «We have one of the best aquifers in the region, a crucial water reservoir for the future, and today we are uncertain about the conditions presented by Tres Valles mining.»
«This is the third time they have contaminated the Quilmenco estuary, thus affecting the Choapa River and our soils as well,» questioned the community representative, asking, «What will happen in the future if this contamination starts to accumulate?»
We will continue to provide updates.
Cover Photo: @alegriagonzaa
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