She said that mining is not only affecting rural areas in Colombia but urban areas as well, such as Tunjuelito town to the south of Bogota.

The mine exploitation is using underground water despite a ban issued by the Minister of Environment of Bogota, explained Tatiana.

“There are several problems such as instability in the soils of the nearby areas. In winter the area flooded causing a health problem as a result of the invasion of mosquitos, mice, rats -which are a source of diseases- thus endangering the lives of the people living near the mine”.

But the main effect is the loss of aquifers as a result of mining exploitation.

The course of river Tunjuelito was changed without an environmental authorization and water from the river has been used without having made the appropriate request, said CENSAT activist.

About the possibility of installing a “mining site” in the place of the exploitations, Tatiana says that these are the same promises made by mining corporations to the people affected, saying once the works are finished they will give something back to the communities. But the ultimate purpose of the project is to avoid responsibilities regarding future problems caused by water shortage.

Meanwhile, the residents of Tunjuelito basin have to put up with mining, which is damaging their health.