Crisis in the Andes: Codelco Battles to Rescue Trapped Miners

Chilean copper giant Codelco is racing against time to rescue five miners trapped at El Teniente following a deadly collapse. The incident, triggered by a 4.2 magnitude tremor, has halted communication with the trapped workers and resulted in one fatality.

Andres Music, El Teniente's General Manager, acknowledged the hurdles posed by aftershocks that have complicated rescue efforts. He highlighted plans to use remotely operated equipment, like drones and robots, once the tremors subside in the next 12 hours.

The cause of the collapse is under investigation to determine if seismic activity or mining operations are at fault. The accident comes as Codelco plans to release its half-year financial results. Meanwhile, concerns loom over potential disruptions to production in the Andesita unit.

(With inputs from agencies.)