Tharisa Minerals EMPr EA and WML Amendments – for the proposed increase of TSF storage capacity via self-raising the walls of TSF2 & TSF 2 extension; and conversion of West Waste Rock Dump 1 Extension into TSF3 at west mine

Tharisa mine has been operational since 2008. Mining is undertaken in two mining sections, namely the East Mine and West Mine, using conventional open pit truck and shovel methods. Waste rock from the open pit areas is either stockpiled on WRDs or backfilled into the open pits as part of concurrent rehabilitation. The two mining sections are separated by the Sterkstroom River and Marikana Road. The following mine infrastructure exists at the mine.
Haul roads;
Run-of-mine;
Concentrator complex;
Product and topsoil stockpiles;
WRDs;
Dormant and active TSFs; and
Offices, workshops, change house and access control facilities.

As part of its on-going mine planning, Tharisa has identified the need for an additional TSF on site i.e. TSF3. Tharisa mine is growing its mining output and as such, more tailings are being produced. The current facilities are nearing their full capacity, hence the need to develop a new TSF. The conversion of a portion of WWRD 1 into TSF3 will ensure that the Life of Mine (LoM) is extended by providing alternative waste storage when the current facilities reach their end of life. The proposed conversion will occur within the approved mining footprint, which will result in minimal negative impacts on the physical environment while contributing positively to the socio-economic environment. The proposed project entails the conversion of WWRD 1 - extension into TSF3 at west mine.

Assessed herein is also the proposed increase TSF storage capacity via self-raising the walls of TSF2 & TSF 2 extension.