News Center — Emissions and dust resulting from mining activities cause extensive damage to nearby areas, leading to crop damage, soil and water degradation, threatening the environment and local livelihoods, and raising growing concerns about the continuation of these practices.

Local residents in the city of Taftan, Sistan and Baluchistan province, have reported that dust emissions from the Taftan gold mine in southeastern Iran have caused severe damage to the region's vineyards. A video published from the area shows a large portion of the garden crops dried up under a layer of soil and dust, while orchard owners say no action has been taken by any party to compensate for the damages.

According to a video published by a citizen, the vineyards near the Taftan gold mine have suffered significant damage. The images show grape clusters and tree leaves completely covered with a thick layer of dust and ash, putting a large portion of the crop at risk of spoilage. These orchards are owned by Baluch families whose livelihoods depend directly on these agricultural products.

Speaking about the current situation, the video's sender stated that the Taftan gold mine has caused irreparable damage to farmers and residents of the area. According to him, agricultural crops have been severely damaged, but to date, no responsible authority or mining company has taken any action to compensate for the damages or address the situation.

He also emphasized that despite the recurrence of these problems, the voices of the region's residents have not been heard, and concerns remain about the future of agriculture and the livelihoods of local families.

Residents of the areas surrounding the Taftan gold mine have warned of the environmental consequences of mining activities in the region. Dust emissions, damage to gardens and farms, deterioration of water quality, and threats to livestock and agriculture were among the most important concerns raised by local residents. However, according to them, these protests have not yet led to the cessation of harmful activities or the implementation of effective programs to mitigate damages.

Protests and Their Repercussions

Continuing this trend, residents of the Madbati slopes in Taftan had previously protested the consequences of mining activities, reporting the destruction of water resources, a decline in spring water levels, damage to agricultural lands, accumulation of mining waste, and cracks in residential houses in villages downstream. They called for an independent investigation and compensation for damages.

Reports have also emerged of violent confrontations with Baluch women in the village of Sarsiah, Taftan, during protests against the environmental impacts of the mine. According to these reports, demonstrators were subjected to threats, insults, and in some cases beatings by military forces and individuals affiliated with the mine .