Investigation Reveals Irregular Coal Extraction in Asturian Mine Following Deadly Explosion
Inspectors from the Principality have uncovered evidence of irregular coal extraction at the Cerredo mine, where a catastrophic explosion occurred on March 31, resulting in the deaths of five miners and serious injuries to four others. The startling findings, which include the discovery of two extensive holes measuring 182 meters and 246 meters in length at the third level of the mine, were reported by the Minister of Ecological Transition, Industry, and Commerce, Belarmina Díaz.
During a formal address to the Asturian Parliament, Minister Díaz shared details about the ongoing investigations into the tragic accident. The identified holes, with an estimated height of 25 to 30 meters and approximately 80 centimeters wide, raise severe concerns regarding the legality of mining activities at that level. Current licenses do not permit Blue Solving, the operating company, to extract coal from the designated third level, which has now become a focal point of scrutiny.
"If confirmed in the future, we will demand that Blue Solving take full responsibility for these actions, which represent not only an administrative breach but also a serious legal infraction that has endanger worker lives in a high-risk environment," Minister Díaz emphasized during her statement.
The investigation follows the most significant mining disaster in Asturias in the last thirty years, prompting urgent calls for accountability. "What occurred with the loss of lives cannot and will not go unpunished. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this incident, employing all means and resources necessary to uncover the truth," she stated.
In the weeks following the explosion, Minister Díaz refuted claims that the Asturian Government had failed to act transparently throughout the investigation process. She assured that no time was wasted in conducting initial inspections, collaborating with experts, and liaising with the Prosecutor's Office and Civil Guard.
An administrative sanctioning file against Blue Solving was opened on April 4 due to the detected irregularities, coinciding with the initial field visit on the day of the fatal accident. Díaz highlighted that they have engaged the General Inspection of Services for a comprehensive evaluation of the mining operations administered by her ministry.
As investigations continue, Mine Safety and regulatory compliance will likely remain at the forefront of discussions in the aftermath of this tragedy, with the potential for legal repercussions awaiting the responsible parties if violations are confirmed.
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