Investigation into the Beposo Tailings Storage Facility Incident in Ghana
The Ghana EPA reported an environmental incident at the Beposo TSF involving the release of 80,000 cubic meters of water. Satellite images provide conflicting evidence regarding the timing and extent of the incident, and questions remain about the measures taken to contain the seepage. The need for greater transparency in mining operations is emphasized given the discrepancies in information.
On February 27, 2025, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of Ghana reported an “environmental incident” involving the Beposo Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) at the Iduapriem Mine, operated by AngloGold Ashanti. The incident, which occurred on February 17, resulted in the release of 80,000 cubic meters of water, as monitored by Lindsay Newland Bowker on LinkedIn, highlighting the scarcity of reliable information about the event.
AngloGold Ashanti has indicated that the Beposo TSF is slated for commissioning in 2023, coinciding with the decommissioning of the Greenfields TSF. Satellite imagery dated January 27, 2025, shows the TSF and its surroundings, depicting a noticeable deep excavation. Additionally, images captured on the day of the spill, and two days after, do not reveal any visible signs of failure, raising questions about the incident.
However, recent satellite imagery from March 3, 2025, suggests significant changes in the landscape, particularly to the northeast of the TSF. This change spans approximately 405 meters long and up to 233 meters wide, covering an estimated area of 4.2 hectares. The discrepancies between the EPA’s assertions and the satellite images regarding the timing and extent of the release are noteworthy, possibly indicating a broader impact than what is visually detectable.
The Ghana EPA statement mentions that the seepage was controlled by a coffer dam and the supernatant water was redirected to an emergency pond. Nonetheless, the location of both the emergency pond and the coffer dam remains uncertain, creating further ambiguity surrounding the incident. The overall situation has prompted inquiries into the exact nature of the observed changes in the satellite imagery and the whereabouts of containment measures.
In summary, the recent failure of the Beposo TSF in Ghana raises significant environmental and operational concerns. The conflicting reports from the Ghana EPA and satellite imagery warrant further investigation into the incident, particularly regarding the actual impact area and the measures taken for containment. The lack of clarity surrounding the incident calls for increased transparency and communication from the responsible mining authorities.
Original Source: eos.org
