Read about the heartbreaking mine tragedy in Kazakhstan, where 28 lives were lost, and discover the nation’s response, including a day of mourning and significant industry changes.
Tragedy struck in Kazakhstan as a mine fire claimed the lives of at least 28 individuals, leaving 18 others unaccounted for, according to a statement by the Ministry for Emergency Situations. The incident unfolded at the Kostenko mine, operated by ArcelorMittal Temirtau, the local arm of the Luxembourg-based steel giant.
Reports suggest that a methane explosion triggered the devastating event, prompting the evacuation of 206 out of the 252 workers at the site. Eighteen injured individuals received medical attention.
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In response to this disaster, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and declared a national day of mourning on October 29.
President Tokayev went further by instructing his cabinet to sever investment cooperation with ArcelorMittal Temirtau. Moreover, both the government and the company revealed their intentions to finalize a deal for the nationalization of the firm, which manages the largest steel mill in the nation.
ArcelorMittal acknowledged these developments and confirmed that discussions between the company and the Kazakh government were ongoing. They have even signed a preliminary agreement regarding the transfer of ownership to the Republic of Kazakhstan. The company expressed its commitment to expedite this transaction to minimize disruptions.
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This incident follows a series of accidents, which drew the government’s ire, as ArcelorMittal failed to fulfill its investment obligations, upgrade equipment, and ensure worker safety, as previously promised.
Consequently, Kazakhstan had been in talks with potential investors to potentially take over the mill, signaling a significant shift in the country’s industrial landscape.