BARNAUL, February 19 (Itar-Tass) — Rescuers in the Altai Territory are cutting through to workers, blocked in a mine by a downfall, Itar-Tass learnt at the Altai territorial branch of the Russian Ministry for Emergencies.
According to rescuers, they established a visual contact with miners, supplying them with food and drinks.
Following the downfall of rock that took place at the Poteryaevsky ore mine near the city of Rubtsovsk, Altai Territory, 96 people came to the surface. Three were blocked by rock. The emergency took place early on Sunday morning at 07.34 local time at the start of the morning shift.
According to preliminary data, the downfall occurred at a depth of 100 metres; there is no fire in the mine.
“Rescuers cleared 2.5 metres of rock. They put a support to prevent further destruction,” the Ministry for Emergencies said. It reported that there were no casualties among miners.
The crisis centre of the Altai territorial emergency branch was set up at the place of emergency. Special groups are involved in the operation. The clearing of the downfall is conducted by paramilitary rescue groups.
The Altai territorial emergency branch set up “a hot line” for relatives with whom psychologists work.
The Poteryaevsky ore mine belongs to the Sibir-Polimetally Company.