An earthquake-induced collapse at the El Teniente mine has left four miners unaccounted for, prompting urgent rescue efforts.
Race Against Time: Chile's Miners Remain Trapped After Earthquake Incident
Race Against Time: Chile's Miners Remain Trapped After Earthquake Incident
Rescue operations intensify as rescuers dig through the rubble for trapped miners in Chile.
Rescuers are working tirelessly in Chile to locate four miners who have been trapped underground following a mine collapse triggered by an earthquake two days ago. The tragedy unfolded at the state-owned Codelco's El Teniente copper mine, situated approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Santiago, where one body has already been discovered among the rubble. The miners were reportedly engaged in work deep beneath the earth's surface when the tremor, measuring 4.2 in magnitude, caused significant structural damage to the mine’s tunnels.
The company confirmed that the identity of the deceased miner has yet to be established, although the families of the five miners who remain missing have been informed. “This discovery fills us with sadness, but it also assures us that our efforts are focused correctly; our strategy is leading us closer to them,” said Andres Music, the general manager of the El Teniente Division, during a press briefing.
Rescue teams are employing heavy machinery to clear passageways and make way for potential survivors. Music mentioned they are currently progressing at a rate of 15 to 20 meters (49 to 66 feet) every 24 hours, although it remains uncertain when or if they will reach the trapped individuals. El Teniente is recognized as the largest underground copper mine globally and is positioned in the challenging terrain of the Andes mountains in central Chile, highlighting the complexities faced by rescue teams as they navigate the conditions to save those still trapped below.
The company confirmed that the identity of the deceased miner has yet to be established, although the families of the five miners who remain missing have been informed. “This discovery fills us with sadness, but it also assures us that our efforts are focused correctly; our strategy is leading us closer to them,” said Andres Music, the general manager of the El Teniente Division, during a press briefing.
Rescue teams are employing heavy machinery to clear passageways and make way for potential survivors. Music mentioned they are currently progressing at a rate of 15 to 20 meters (49 to 66 feet) every 24 hours, although it remains uncertain when or if they will reach the trapped individuals. El Teniente is recognized as the largest underground copper mine globally and is positioned in the challenging terrain of the Andes mountains in central Chile, highlighting the complexities faced by rescue teams as they navigate the conditions to save those still trapped below.
