a huge underground reservoir filled with water has been discovered by a mining company in West Australia. According to the company's officials, there is enough water in the reservoir to supply Perth for the next 4,000 years.

Anaconda Nickel Ltd ( anl ), the mining company that came upon the water reservoir, said it discovered the water 400 kilometres (km) north east of Kalgoorlie. The company was carrying out exploring activities to unearth new water reserves to extend its processing facilities in the region. The water, found in the Officer Basin, extends from 50 to 2,000 metres deep.

While the quality of the water may not be suitable for drinking purposes right away, it can be utilised directly in processing or agricultural use. However, once the water undergoes basic reverse osmosis, it would be suitable for human consumption. anl 's chief executive Andrew Forrest said discovery of the reservoir opened the door to enormous potential opportunities for the region and the state. "This water will greatly assist existing industry and has the advantage to kick start new and expansive agricultural based industries,' he said.