Government Changes Rescue Strategy for Collapsed Coal Mine

The government decided to change its strategy to save the 10 mining workers trapped in a collapsed coal mine in Coahuila after the water levels of the El Pinabete wells increased significantly over the weekend. In addition, the authorities do not rule out the possibility of receiving help from foreign rescuers.

The National Coordination of Civil Protection (CNPC) of the Ministry of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC) reported that this Sunday, the water levels of wells two, three and four of the Pinabete mine increased significantly due to a leak caused by a broken tunnel in a nearby mine. CNPC reported that its specialists determined that the leak came from Conchas Norte, a mine that closed 30 years ago due to heavy flooding.

“We have a serious problem. This mine stopped operating in 1996 due to a flood. For 28 years, water has accumulated. There are still many days of work left. We have been here for almost 15 days, surely there will be more,” said National Civil Protection Coordinator Laura Velázquez. In addition, Velázquez pointed out that an additional problem is the intense rain in Coahuila, which prevents rescuers from starting work and has leaked further water into the wells.

The government announced that because of these new circumstances, the rescue strategy will be changed. First, pumping is to be carried out constantly in the wells and areas with holes will be identified by underground mining efforts. Likewise, 20 wells will be drilled in the Conchas Norte mine and cement will be injected to seal the leaks.

Velázquez pointed out that the Mexican government has never rejected international aid and has even called for it. However, authorities believe that Mexican experts know more about the composition of these mines than foreigners would. “It is not ruled out because we want to do everything possible to rescue them. If necessary, we will bring rescuers from anywhere in the world,” said President López Obrador.

What Happened in Coahuila?

The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) reported that on Aug. 3, 2022, at 13:35 p.m., the Las Conchas mine, which started operations in January 2022, collapsed while workers were carrying out excavation activities. According to preliminary reports, the workers reached an inner wall separating them from a water-filled adjacent area, which after collapsing caused flooding that trapped them. “The mine started operations in January, to date we do not have reports regarding irregularities,” STPS stated. So far, five workers were able to get out, but 10 more remain trapped and isolated as authorities struggle to reach them.

For a week, authorities have been draining the water to enter the mine and rescue the mining workers. However, they have not been successful so far. Relatives of the victims have complained about the lack of transparency provided and progress the government has made.