Bodies of all 46 mine workers have been found by rescuers after an accident at the Kostenko mine in Kazakhstan, as announced by country’s Minister for Emergency Situations Syrym Sharipkhanov at today’s government meeting. He noted that in addition to domestic specialists, experts from near and far abroad were also involved in the investigation of the accident causes.
“The identities of 40 deceased have been established. All the necessary examinations
are being carried out to identify six more people. To this end, DNA analysis
will be required. The search operations were complicated by the lack of
electricity, the long length of mine workings and numerous destroyed
mechanisms. It was difficult for rescuers to get to separate flooded mine
workings,” said Sharipkhanov.
Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan
Smailov instructed the governor’s office of the Karagandy region and the
Ministry for Emergency Situations to take all measures to eliminate the
accident. The inspection of mine workings and pumping of water in the areas are
now being carried out for the mine restoration. Smailov also stressed that the
families of the deceased and injured will be provided with comprehensive
support. Meanwhile, the global leaders and heads of international organizations
extend their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased miners.
Presidents of China, Bulgaria, Armenia, the Chairperson of the Presidency of
Bosnia and Herzegovina, the CICA Secretary General and others expressed words
of sympathy and support to the families of victims.
