Tragic Landslide in Unregulated Myanmar Jade Mine Claims 25 Lives, with 14 Still Missing
A devastating landslide at an unregulated jade mine in Myanmar has claimed 25 lives, with 14 still missing. The incident highlights the need for reforms to protect workers in the lucrative but dangerous industry.
In a remote region of Myanmar, a devastating landslide at an unregulated jade mine has claimed the lives of 25 individuals, with 14 others still missing. The incident occurred on Sunday outside the Hpakant township in northern Kachin, following days of torrential rain and floods that have plagued the country.
The lucrative jade mining industry in Myanmar has long been associated with frequent worker deaths, and this tragedy follows a landslide in the same area last year that resulted in over 170 fatalities.
Emergency workers and rescuers have been tirelessly working to recover the bodies and locate the missing individuals. Their efforts have involved digging through mud and grappling with challenging conditions, including bodies found floating in water.
The intense rainfall loosened a massive pile of earth, estimated to be approximately 150-180 metres (500-600 feet) high, which was left behind by mining excavations. The mine had suspended its operations during the rainy season; however, it is believed that locals, hoping to find valuable items in the mud, were caught in the landslide.
The jade industry heavily relies on low-paid migrant workers who scrape out this coveted gemstone, mainly for export to neighboring China. Myanmar's northern region, rich in natural resources such as jade, timber, gold, and amber, has been a source of funding for both sides involved in the long-standing civil war between ethnic Kachin insurgents and the military.
Despite calls from environmentalist and rights groups for reforms in the industry, hopes for better standards were essentially dashed following the military coup that took place earlier this year. International watchdogs have pointed out that the coup has effectively hindered any progress in addressing the issues plaguing the jade mining industry.
The tragedy at the unregulated jade mine serves as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by those working in the industry, as well as the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of workers. As Myanmar continues to grapple with the impacts of torrential rain and floods, efforts to address the issues surrounding the jade mining industry and protect the lives of those involved remain a pressing concern.
