289 Miners Trapped Underground at Sibanye-Stillwater’s Kloof Gold Mine

Efforts are currently underway to rescue 289 mine workers trapped deep underground at the Kloof gold mine, operated by Sibanye-Stillwater, roughly 60 kilometers west of Johannesburg.

The mining company confirmed on Friday morning that the miners are safe and have gathered at an underground assembly point. Emergency protocols were immediately activated after the incident, and rescue teams are on-site to ensure a safe extraction.

Situation Under Control, Rescue Expected Soon

While details around what caused the incident remain limited, the company reassured the public that all workers have access to food and essential supplies and are not in immediate danger. The rescue operation is progressing steadily, with expectations that the situation will be fully resolved by midday Friday.

Sibanye-Stillwater, one of South Africa’s leading gold and platinum producers, emphasized that safety remains their top priority.

Company Responds Swiftly to Crisis

In a brief statement, Sibanye-Stillwater said:

“Our teams are working around the clock to ensure the safe return of all 289 employees. All the workers are accounted for and are currently located at a designated refuge point underground. We remain in close communication with them and continue to supply necessities as we carry out the rescue.”

A Reminder of Mining’s High-Risk Nature

The incident at the Kloof mine serves as another reminder of the challenges and dangers facing South Africa’s mining industry. While no injuries have been reported, this situation highlights the critical importance of safety protocols in an industry that forms a backbone of the nation’s economy.

In Summary

• Location: Kloof gold mine, ~60km west of Johannesburg

• Incident: 289 miners trapped underground

• Status: All miners accounted for and safe

• Rescue: Ongoing, expected completion by midday Friday

• Company: Sibanye-Stillwater

The mining community — and the nation — now wait with bated breath as rescue teams work tirelessly to bring the workers back to the surface safely.

{Source: India Today}

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