Zimbabwe: Response teams continue rescue operations following mine collapse in Bindura November 26

Event

Emergency response teams continue rescue operations on Thursday, November 26, in Bindura, where dozens of illegal miners are thought be trapped underground following the collapse of an old mine shaft. The miners were reportedly working in a disused gold mine in the town. Reports indicate that at least six people have been rescued and more than 20 others remain trapped.

Accidents caused by explosions and flooding are common in illegal mining; operations are often carried out under dangerous conditions and without appropriate safety standards. Localized disruptions amid emergency response operations are likely in the area in the near term.

Context

Shaft collapses and other accidents are common in the unregulated mining sector, in which people work marginal or abandoned mines without appropriate safety measures or emergency response capabilities.

Advice

Those in the area are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the vicinity of the incident in the near term, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.