Historical Events tagged with "mining"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Jade Mine Collapse in Hpakant, Myanmar

April 23rd, 2019 5 years ago

A jade mine in Hpakant, Myanmar, collapsed, resulting in the deaths of four miners and two rescue workers. Over 50 others were reported missing and presumed dead from the disaster. The collapse triggered landslide-like conditions, common in the area known for its extensive jade mining activities. Rescue operations were launched immediately as local authorities worked to find those trapped under the rubble.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Brumadinho Dam Collapse Claims 270 Lives

January 25th, 2019 6 years ago

A dam operated by Vale S.A. collapsed in Brumadinho, Brazil, resulting in the deaths of 270 people. The collapse released a torrent of mining waste, devastating the surrounding area and sparking national outrage over corporate safety practices. Rescue efforts were undertaken immediately.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Explosions in Petlawad, Madhya Pradesh

September 12th, 2015 9 years ago

A series of explosions occurred in Petlawad, Madhya Pradesh, when propane erupted and ignited illegally stored mining detonators. The incident resulted in at least 105 fatalities and more than 150 injuries. This catastrophe raised alarms about unsafe storage practices and the lack of regulation in the area, particularly regarding explosives and flammable materials.

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Accidents & Tragedies

34 Miners Fatalities in Donetsk Gas Explosion

March 4th, 2015 10 years ago

A suspected gas explosion at the Zasyadko coal mine in the Donetsk region led to the tragic loss of at least 34 miners. Rescue operations were hindered by ongoing conflict in the area and resulted in significant challenges. The explosion occurred in the city of Donetsk, which is under the control of pro-Russian separatists amid ongoing civil unrest in Ukraine. Many families were left mourning their loved ones as the mining community grappled with safety concerns in the rebel-held region.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Underground Coal Mine Explosion in Turkey

May 13th, 2014 10 years ago

An explosion occurred in an underground coal mine in Soma, Turkey, leading to the deaths of 301 miners. The disaster unfolded in the evening shift as workers were at depths of over 1,200 meters, making rescue operations challenging. The incident raised serious concerns about mining safety regulations in the country, which had already suffered from previous mining accidents. Families of the victims mourned, and protests erupted across Turkey as citizens demanded accountability from the mining company and government authorities.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Coal Mine Blast in Xiaojiawan, Sichuan Province

August 29th, 2012 12 years ago

A catastrophic explosion in the Xiaojiawan coal mine led to the deaths of at least 26 miners, with 21 others reported missing. The blast, which occurred during the early morning hours, raised serious concerns regarding mining safety regulations in China. Rescue efforts were initiated immediately, and numerous teams were dispatched to the site. The incident highlighted ongoing issues related to safety in the mining sector, which has faced multiple disasters in recent years.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Marikana Massacre Results in 47 Deaths

August 10th, 2012 12 years ago

A violent confrontation erupted between police and striking miners at the Lonmin Platinum Mine in Marikana, South Africa. The clash followed weeks of labor unrest and demands for better wages from the miners. During the confrontation, police opened fire on a group of miners, resulting in the deaths of 47 people and raising national and international outcry regarding police brutality and workers' rights. The event highlighted deep-seated inequalities in South Africa's mining industry and labor relations.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Tragic Gleision Colliery Mining Accident

September 15th, 2011 13 years ago

Four miners lost their lives during a mining operation in the Gleision Colliery, located in the Swansea Valley of Wales. The incident occurred when a significant amount of water flooded the mine, trapping the workers and leading to their eventual deaths. Emergency services worked tirelessly to rescue the miners but were ultimately unsuccessful. The tragedy highlighted ongoing concerns regarding safety in the mining industry and prompted discussions about the adequacy of existing safety regulations.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Pike River Mine Explosion Claims 29 Lives

November 19th, 2010 14 years ago

An explosion occurred in the Pike River Mine, New Zealand, resulting in the death of 29 miners. The explosion was the first of four, and despite rescue efforts, no survivors were found. The incident marked the worst mining disaster in New Zealand since 1914, leading to nationwide mourning and raising significant concerns about mine safety regulations.

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