World

Fears of Brazil dam mud pollution

November 21, 2015 5:14 pm

A wave of toxic mud in the Rio Doce river in Brazil from a collapsed dam at an iron ore mine is expected to reach the sea soon amid concerns it will cause severe pollution.

Tons of iron ore waste and silica has spread over more than 800km (497 miles) and is now flowing downstream.

Samarco, the mine owner, has tried to protect plants and animals by building barriers along the banks of the river.

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Workers are widening the river mouth to help the mud flow out to sea fast.

The mud is expected to reach the sea on Saturday or Sunday.

The contaminated mud, tested by the water management authorities, was found to contain toxic substances like mercury, arsenic, chromium and manganese at levels exceeding human consumption levels.