Abstract:
A resume of the pioneering history of the Far West Rand region is followed by a review of mining activities in the area. The counter-productive influence of sinkholes on development since 1962 is rated against the mining, industrial and agricultural potential. Sinkhole development is analysed by unravelling the geological history. The control by geomorphological, geohydrological and stratigraphical factors as well as the influence of geological structure and chemical weathering on the formation of sinkholes is emphasised. Several investigation techniques have been put to the test since the first surface manifestations of the influence of dewatering. Success or failure is reported. Sinkhole populations amplify areas of high and low risk. Differentiation between incidences prior and subsequent to dewatering, facilitates classification in accordance with the dominant reason for sinkhole formation. True perspective evolves after rational scrutiny of geological and statistical evidence. Six case histories serve as examples of the diversity of experiences. Newspaper reports of sinkholes and subsidence’s which occurred since 12 December 1962 are contained in an annexure.
