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South Africa: 11 people were dead and 75 people were injured after an elevator carrying workers suddenly fell to the surface in a platinum mine in Rustenburg city of South Africa on Monday. The injured have been admitted to a hospital for treatment. The incident happened at the end of workers’ shift at the Rustenburg mine on Monday. CEO of mine owner Impala Platinum Holdings Nico Müller said it was “the darkest day in the history of Implats”.
After the incident, CEO said, “This is the darkest day in the history of Implats and our hearts are heavy for the lives lost and the individuals affected by this devasting accident. We are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of our colleagues and are in the process of ensuring all next of kin have been contacted.” He further said,”Implats is offering ongoing support to the families and colleagues of those lost in service. We also hold our injured colleagues in our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time.”
He added, “I express my deeply gratitude to the local medical services of Bojanala district and the Impala Medical Services team who have provided essential emergency paramedic services during this crisis, securing additional ICU beds and ambulances, mobilizing additional general surgeons and securing support. We worked tirelessly to assist our Impala Hospital in the care of the critically injured and three private hospitals.”
The company further said that investigation into the sudden collapse of the lift has been started. Additionally, all mining operations in Impala Rustenburg have been suspended for Tuesday. It is noteworthy that South Africa is the largest producer of platinum in the world and such mine accidents have been common in the country. There were 49 deaths in all mining accidents in the country in 2022, down from 74 a year earlier. Earlier,In a statement he said,”The safety of our employees is paramount and we are providing all possible support to those involved and working closely with the relevant authorities. We are steadfast in our dedication to ensuring our colleagues and brought home safely and continue to prioritise safety above all else.”
