Emergency crews are working to rescue three miners trapped underground following two ground collapses at the Red Chris copper and gold mine in northwestern British Columbia. The incident occurred Tuesday morning at a project site located on Tahltan Nation territory near Dease Lake.
According to B.C. Premier David Eby, the miners are believed to be safe and located inside a designated underground refuge station. After the first ground fall, the workers, employed by a business partner of mine operator Newmont Corporation, were directed to relocate over 500 metres away to the emergency shelter. A second fall of ground then blocked the access tunnel and disrupted communication with the team.
The mine has temporarily suspended all operations to concentrate efforts on the rescue. Specialized mine rescue crews from nearby sites have been called in to assist.
The refuge station is fully equipped with food, water, and a ventilation system, designed to sustain individuals during emergencies for extended periods.
Newmont says it is exploring all available technologies and methods to restore contact and safely extract the workers. As of now, there is no indication of injury. Further updates will be provided as the rescue operation continues.
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