Authorities and environmentalists in Zambia fear the long-term impact of an acid spill at a Chinese-owned mine that contaminated a major river and could potentially affect millions of people after signs of pollution were detected at least 100 kilometers (60 miles) downstream.

Kafue river serves as the major water way in the southern African country of Zambia. The Zambian government has deployed helicopters to drop lime into the water to to counteract the acid and roll back the damage caused by the Chinese-owned mine.

KITWE: Authorities and environmentalists in Zambia are deeply concerned about the long-term effects of an acid spill at a Chinese-owned mine that has contaminated a major river, potentially affecting millions of people.

Signs of pollution in the river were detected at least 100 kilometres downstream from the source of the pollution.