Madagascar Villagers Sue Mining Giant Over Lead Poisoning
Villagers in Madagascar are suing Rio Tinto, a major mining company, claiming the company's mine has polluted nearby lakes and rivers with lead and uranium.
The 64 residents of the Anosy region accuse the mine, which is majority-owned by Rio Tinto, of contaminating lakes and waterways, affecting up to 15,000 people who rely on these sources for drinking and domestic use. They say the contamination caused high lead levels in their blood and needed medical attention.
Rio Tinto denies the accusations and say its water management systems are safe.
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Anosy region water source.