Government Reaches New Agreement With Relatives of Trapped Miners

The Mexican government announced that the relatives of the 10 miners trapped in a coal mine in Sabinas, Coahuila, have agreed to the new rescue plan and will soon receive compensation. However, relatives have complained about the lack of progress in the rescue efforts and have even called for the dismissal of the National Civil Protection Coordinator Laura Velázquez.

Currently, the main problem that rescuers face is that the galleries, which are 60m below the surface, are constantly flooded through the tunnels. The new approach is expected to take around six months. However, in case there are complications, it could take up to 11 months. Previously, relatives had expressed their disappointment with the new plan, arguing that the bodies of their loved ones will remain underground for a long time.

The government announced that the relatives of the vicitms have also agreed to receive compensation, which will be delivered before Sept. 9 by the Undersecretary for Human Rights of the Ministry of the Interior. Information on the type of compensation was not provided.

“The Mexican government has provided comprehensive support and assistance to the relatives through the delivery of supplies and permanent dialogue about the actions and results of the rescue efforts. Now, we come to a very important moment, as we have reached consensus with the relatives. They also accepted compensation, which will be delivered in the following days,” said Velázquez.

However, in the last month, relatives of the victims have complained about the government's lack of transparency and progress. In addition, they have accused the government of not working and planning properly and have called for Vázquez's dismissal.

What Happened at the Mine?

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. The workers are thought to have reached an inner wall separating them from a water-filled adjacent area, which after collapsing flooded the chamber trapping them. “The mine started operations in January and 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 several weeks, authorities have been draining the water to enter the mine and rescue the mining workers. However, they have not been successful so far.