In a country prone to devasting cyclones and floods like Mozambique, as demonstrated recently by Cyclone Idai, it is imperative that mine planning and design considers these vagaries of nature.
According to Ismail Mahomed, partner, principal scientist and hydrogeologist at SRK Consulting, the relatively dry interior of the country will also pose water challenge of its own mining projects.
"Generally, managing water systems in mining - including groundwater - presents one of the three problems: too little, too much or too dirty," said Mahomed.
Too little
In arid or highly seasonal environments, mines' water supply may not be readily available from surface water sources like rivers and streams. Developing a wellfield may be an alternative option.
"In crystalline and hard rock environments, aquifers are discrete and require a robust exploration programme before a wellfield can be developed," he said.
