Officials confirm miners are safe in a refuge area, rescue efforts continue amid communication challenges.
Rescue Efforts Underway for Miners Trapped in British Columbia Mine Collapse
Rescue Efforts Underway for Miners Trapped in British Columbia Mine Collapse
Three miners trapped in Red Chris mine following ground collapse; rescue operations ongoing.
Rescue officials in Canada are currently engaged in efforts to free three miners trapped underground following a collapse at the Red Chris mine in northern British Columbia. Located on Tahltan Nation territory, about 260 miles (420 km) from Fort Nelson, the mine accident occurred when part of the ground gave way, leaving the miners stranded.
British Columbia Premier David Eby addressed the situation, stating, "There was an accident. There are three miners that are currently trapped underground. They are, to the best of our knowledge, uninjured and in a refuge area." The miner operator, Newmont Corp, reported that the incident happened a day earlier, but the miners managed to reach a secure location within the mine before a second collapse further impeded their exit.
This refuge area is equipped with sufficient food, water, and ventilation for the miners to remain safe for an extended period, according to Newmont's statement. "At the time of the initial incident, three business partner employees were working more than 500 meters beyond the affected zone and were asked to relocate to a designated refuge station before a subsequent fall of ground blocked the access way," the company explained.
Since the second collapse, communication with the trapped miners has been limited, prompting a temporary suspension of operations at the mine. The Red Chris mine, which began operations in 2014, is an open-pit copper and gold mine and continues to face challenges while rescue operations are actively underway.
British Columbia Premier David Eby addressed the situation, stating, "There was an accident. There are three miners that are currently trapped underground. They are, to the best of our knowledge, uninjured and in a refuge area." The miner operator, Newmont Corp, reported that the incident happened a day earlier, but the miners managed to reach a secure location within the mine before a second collapse further impeded their exit.
This refuge area is equipped with sufficient food, water, and ventilation for the miners to remain safe for an extended period, according to Newmont's statement. "At the time of the initial incident, three business partner employees were working more than 500 meters beyond the affected zone and were asked to relocate to a designated refuge station before a subsequent fall of ground blocked the access way," the company explained.
Since the second collapse, communication with the trapped miners has been limited, prompting a temporary suspension of operations at the mine. The Red Chris mine, which began operations in 2014, is an open-pit copper and gold mine and continues to face challenges while rescue operations are actively underway.
