A multinational mineral producer could pay the ultimate price for failing to prevent a cavity near one of its major mining operations.
Lundin Mining could be indefinitely banned from Chile after a 36.5 metre-wide sinkhole suddenly appeared near its Minera Ojos del Salado Complex, about 665km north of Santiago. Water was reportedly visible at the bottom.
The National Geology and Mining Service (Sernageomin) suspended work at both the Santos and Alcaparrosa mine sites, and the country’s government plans to penalise the Canada-headquartered proponent.
“We are going to go all the way with consequences to sanction, not just fine,” Mining Minister Marcela Hernando said according to Reuters.
Hernando also promised to investigate whether Lundin excessively mined the area.
“That also makes us think that we have to reformulate what our inspection processes are,” she said according to the newswire agency.
Lundin claims it immediately reported the sinkhole and isolated the nearby area. No staff, equipment or infrastructure is impacted.
“The surficial sinkhole has remained stable since detection. Minera Ojos del Salado is conducting a technical analysis and gathering information to determine the cause of the event,” it said in a public statement.
“No movement has been detected related to the surficial sinkhole. As a preventive measure, development work in an area of the Alcaparrosa underground mine has been temporarily suspended though is not expected to impact [on] annual guidance for the Candelaria copper mining complex.”
Related articles
Aussie coal ban rumoured to end soon
Coal spot price could hit $685 a tonne due to Russia-Ukraine tension says analyst
Demand for Aussie coal jumps due to Russia-Ukraine tension
Ipswich sinkhole caused by mine shaft.
Add Comment