Two Missing After Mining Accident in Asturias: A Deepening Crisis in Safety

At least two individuals are missing following a significant accident at a mining operation in Vega de Rengos, located within the municipality of Cangas del Narcea in Asturias. Initial reports reveal that the incident was triggered by a material collapse within the mine, as confirmed by sources from the Government of the Principality and the Civil Guard. Authorities have indicated that the accident occurred at levels 2 or 3 of the mining operation, which is managed by the company TyC Narcea. Emergency services, including the Mining Rescue Brigade of Hunosa, have been mobilized to the site to search for the missing individuals. The Vega de Rengos mine has already seen its share of tragedy, as mining activities were previously halted by the Principality of Asturias. This suspension happened in early April, shortly after a devastating accident on March 31 at the nearby Cerredo mine in Degaña, where five miners lost their lives, and four others were injured. Such incidents have raised serious concerns about mining safety in the region. Reports from Europa Press indicate that the General Directorate of Mines ordered the provisional suspension of ongoing work following the March accident. This suspension aimed to investigate whether the enhancement works at the mine adhered to the necessary permits. The halt in operations sparked protests from 70 workers in Oviedo, who demanded a reconsideration of the decision. Mining activities were eventually permitted to resume on June 5, after authorities verified that TyC Narcea had met all required safety standards. However, this recent accident raises critical questions regarding the effectiveness of these safety measures and whether they are enough to prevent such tragedies in the future. As the investigation into the Vega de Rengos accident unfolds, local communities and families of the missing are left anxiously awaiting news, highlighting the ongoing struggle between the dangers of mining operations and the essential job this sector provides to the region. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2