The Tajik-Persian Association of Canada has issued a strong warning regarding the “looting and destruction” of mines in northern and central Afghanistan.
They report that gold mining using toxic mercury and cyanide is contaminating the Amu and Kokcha rivers.
The statement highlights that this pollution poses long-term risks, including cancer and ecological damage for future generations.
The unsupervised extraction of coal and oil is described as the behavior of a “conquering power” rather than responsible governance.
Calling for international intervention, the group labeled the situation an environmental and human crisis.
This comes as local protests in Takhar’s Chah Ab district against mining practices have turned violent, resulting in several deaths.
