Ranger expansion threatens Kakadu

The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) has criticised the fast-tracking of approval for a 3km tunnel under the Ranger uranium mine operated by Energy Resources of Australia.

ACF said the tunnel is pivotal to the expansion of operations at Ranger and threatens Kakadu National Park

An ACF statement noted that a "serious and unresolved leak of around 100,000 litres of contaminated liquid per day from the Ranger tailings dam was confirmed in February. Ranger remains the focus of sustained criticism from environmentalists over its long history of leaks, spills and incidents."

ACF's Dave Sweeney said: "Ranger is leaking, creaking and under-performing. This mine urgently needs review and overhaul not a green light for further expansion."

From GLW issue 796