Two dead in Chegutu gold mine collapse; Provincial Affairs minister calls for stricter safety protocols to curb fatalities
TWO miners have so far been confirmed dead after a rockfall at Elvington Mine in Chegutu. According to preliminary investigations, the tragedy occurred after a rock boulder fell, trapping nine employees working underground at the Mutohwe shaft. Five of them managed to escape while two died on the spot. Two others are missing. Minister of […] The post Two dead in Chegutu gold mine collapse; Provincial Affairs minister calls for stricter safety protocols to curb fatalities appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.
Black News 
TWO miners have so far been confirmed dead after a rockfall at Elvington Mine in Chegutu.
According to preliminary investigations, the tragedy occurred after a rock boulder fell, trapping nine employees working underground at the Mutohwe shaft. Five of them managed to escape while two died on the spot. Two others are missing.
Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, confirmed the incident ahead of her planned tour of the tragedy site this Sunday.
“It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that I address the nation and the people of Mashonaland West Province following the tragic mining accident that occurred at the Mutohwe Shaft of Elvington Mine.
”A technical report received indicates that a rockfall occurred within the shaft, trapping nine miners underground. I can confirm the following details regarding the search and rescue efforts: Survivors— Five miners managed to escape the shaft. One of the survivors sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
“It is with profound grief that I confirm that two miners have been found deceased with two miners remain trapped under the debris. Rescue teams are working tirelessly around the clock to reach them,” said Chombo.
The minister extended condolences to the bereaved families.
”On behalf of the Government and the provincial leadership, I wish to extend my deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this tragic accident.
“No words can adequately ease the pain of such a sudden loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those still trapped; we share your anxiety and remain hopeful for a miracle.”
Chombo said government will provide the necessary support during the difficult period and also ensure the trapped miners are accounted for.
“We remain committed to the rescue operation until the last miner is accounted for,” she said.
The minister called for observance of stricter safety protocols in mines inorder to curb accidents resulting in fatalities and injuries.
”This tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the inherent dangers within our mining sector. We cannot afford to lose lives in pursuit of our mineral wealth. Safety must never be sacrificed for productivity. Every miner deserves to return home to their family at the end of their shift. One life lost is one life too many.
“I am, therefore, making an urgent call to all mining entities—from large-scale operations to small-scale miners—to adhere to the highest safety and health standards. I have directed the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development’s inspectorate to intensify safety audits across the province to prevent further loss of life. We will ensure a full investigation into the cause of this collapse to ensure accountability and the prevention of future occurrences.”
Chombo commended the rescue teams, the Elvington Mine management, and the local community for their swift response and bravery in the face of the disaster.
The post Two dead in Chegutu gold mine collapse; Provincial Affairs minister calls for stricter safety protocols to curb fatalities appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.
