Miners Rescued in Chile After Week Trapped; Concerns Remain for Those Still Isolated

Eight miners have been successfully rescued from the Pascua Lama mine in Chile's Atacama Region, where they were trapped for a week by severe weather conditions. The workers, part of a group of 39 affected by heavy snowfall at the Barriales and Potrerillos camps, were airlifted out on Friday. They landed at Alto del Carmen, where their health is being assessed, with some experiencing anxiety and panic attacks.

“

The camps do not have basic heating conditions: they are with seven meters of snow and have little fuel. In fact, the fuel they have left for lighting - and heating in some places - should run out today.

Despite the initial rescues, 31 miners remain isolated. Hugo Páez, president of the Confederation of Mining Workers of Chile, expressed serious concerns about their well-being. He warned that the camps lack basic heating, are buried under seven meters of snow, and have limited fuel for lighting and warmth, which was expected to run out on the day of his statement. This contrasts with Barrick's earlier assurances of good health and adequate supplies.

The rescue operation has been hampered by delays. The deputy for Atacama, Cristian Tapia, denounced that the company, Barrick Chile, had promised two helicopters for the rescue but only provided one. This has slowed down the evacuation process, preventing the remaining miners from being rescued during a window of favorable weather. Tapia noted that company executives on-site have not provided explanations for the missing helicopter.

“

the company had committed to two helicopters, and unfortunately, it arrived with only one.

Barrick Chile acknowledged the miners' distress due to the extraordinary weather. The company stated its priority is the safe and swift evacuation of all remaining personnel. It emphasized that the air operation adheres to safety and visibility conditions, and flights will continue as long as conditions permit, utilizing all available logistical resources.

“

We understand the anguish and concern of the workers due to the extraordinary weather conditions they had to face in the last few days. Our priority is focused on completing, safely and as soon as possible, the exit of all the people who are still in the camps.