The effects of mine fires can be severe. Smoke and ash released from open cut mine fires can have an immediate and widespread impact on air quality, affecting local residents and particularly the most vulnerable people in the community. Poor air quality can aggravate respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis and increase the risk of respiratory problems.5 Short term symptoms can include itchy eyes, sore throat, runny nose and coughing.6 Long term effects can include increased levels of cardiovascular problems and elevated levels of cancer.7 Groundwater contamination In Victoria, the proximity of underground and open cut mines to local communities can create risks in relation to the quality of groundwater and surface water. Old goldmines under towns can also leave a legacy, especially their ongoing impact on the local watertable which must be monitored continually (box 17.2).
The effects of mine fires can be severe. Smoke and ash released from open cut mine fires can have an immediate and widespread impact on air quality, affecting local residents and particularly the most vulnerable people in the community. Poor air quality can aggravate respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis and increase the risk of respiratory problems.5 Short term symptoms can include itchy eyes, sore throat, runny nose and coughing.6 Long term effects can include increased levels of cardiovascular problems and elevated levels of cancer.7 Groundwater contamination In Victoria, the proximity of underground and open cut mines to local communities can create risks in relation to the quality of groundwater and surface water. Old goldmines under towns can also leave a legacy, especially their ongoing impact on the local watertable which must be monitored continually (box 17.2).
11370-DELWP-InquiryReport_Word-Version_PART-C.docx