45 Dead in Kazakhstan’s Kostenko Mine Fire
45 Mine Workers Killed in Fire at ArcelorMittal Temirtau Mine in Kazakhstan
As of October 29, a tragic fire at the Kostenko mine owned by the ArcelorMittal Temirtau (AMT) mining company in Kazakhstan has claimed the lives of 45 mine workers. The search for the remaining miner is ongoing, as reported by the Kazakh Ministry of Emergency Situations.
In response to the incident, an operational headquarters has been established at two mining sites situated about six kilometers apart. The purpose is to explore all possible routes for mine rescuers to reach the suspected locations of the missing miner.
Emergency Situations Minister Syrym Sharipkhanov personally descended into a mine shaft to assess the supposed epicenter of the accident. He discovered destroyed mining equipment, debris, and damage to the ventilation structure, which has hindered the search operation.
Sharipkhanov stated, “There are no visible sources of combustion, and the gas situation is normal.” However, efforts to eliminate the consequences of the accident are still underway.
Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov has emphasized the need to thoroughly investigate the causes of the incident and hold accountable those responsible. He has instructed the Ministry of Labor, the local administration (akimat), and AMT to provide assistance to the families of the injured and deceased miners.
Furthermore, Smailov has tasked authorities with completing the necessary procedures for the transfer of AMT’s ownership to Kazakhstan.
To lead AMT during this challenging period, the government commission established to investigate the mine fire causes has appointed Vadim Basin as the Acting CEO. Basin’s appointment was made by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Basin has assured that the company will honor payment terms and social guarantees while prioritizing improvements in labor safety at the mines. Previously serving as the first deputy governor of the Karagandy Region, Basin started his career as an electrician at a metallurgical plant.
The tragic incident at the Kostenko mine has highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of mine workers. The investigation into the fire’s causes will be crucial in preventing similar accidents in the future and ensuring justice for the victims and their families.
