Vedanta agrees to settle claims over alleged Zambia copper mine pollution

Vedanta Resources Ltd. and its Konkola Copper Mines PLC unit agreed to settle all claims filed by Zambian villagers over the alleged pollution caused by the Nchanga copper mine.

The U.K.-based miner, however, noted that it was not an admission of liability. It also did not disclose the settlement amount.

This stems from allegations that supposed toxic discharge from the mine damaged land and waterways, according to a report by Reuters on Jan. 19.

Claimants comprised over 2,500 villagers, including more than 600 children, who were seeking damages, remediation and cessation, the report said.

In 2019, Britain's Supreme Court allowed the case to be brought to English courts, arguing that the company owed villagers a duty of care, the news wire reported.