Background on Codelco and the El Teniente Mine
Codelco, or Corporación Nacional del Cobre de Chile, is the state-owned copper mining company in Chile. It operates one of the world’s largest copper mines, El Teniente, located in the O’Higgins region. The mine is a critical part of Chile’s economy, contributing significantly to the country’s copper exports.
The Tragic Incident
On Thursday evening, around 17:30 local time (21:30 GMT), a powerful earthquake struck the El Teniente mine, causing a collapse in the underground passages. The earthquake registered at a magnitude of 4.2, one of the largest in recent history for this region.
Rescue Efforts and Findings
Following the collapse, rescue teams worked tirelessly to navigate through more than two dozen meters of subterranean tunnels. On Saturday, the first trapped worker was discovered, and by Sunday, three more were found. Tragically, the body of the fifth miner was also located on Sunday.
The fiscal for the O’Higgins region, Aquiles Cubillos, announced the discovery of the fifth miner’s body. With this latest development, the death toll from the incident has risen to six, including one person who perished during the initial event on Thursday night.
Codelco’s Investigation
Codelco is currently investigating the cause of the collapse. The company is examining whether mining activities or natural tectonic movements in Chile, a country prone to earthquakes, played a role in this tragic accident.
Impact on the Mining Community
This tragedy has deeply affected the mining community in Chile and beyond. El Teniente is not only a significant source of copper but also an essential employer in the region. The loss of these five workers will have far-reaching consequences, both for their families and the broader mining industry.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Codelco? Codelco is Chile’s state-owned copper mining company, operating one of the world’s largest copper mines, El Teniente.
- What caused the mine collapse? The collapse was triggered by a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 4.2, one of the largest in recent history for the El Teniente mine.
- How many workers were found dead? Five workers were tragically found dead following the mine collapse.
- What is Codelco investigating? Codelco is examining whether mining activities or natural tectonic movements contributed to the mine collapse.
