Updated on
Summary
Engineers in Chile have begun drilling an escape route for 33 miners who have been trapped in a gold and copper mine since a cave-in more than three weeks ago. The drill will first create a narrow pilot hole, then a larger drill bit will be used to make the hole wide enough for a rescue capsule that will pull the miners to the surface. The miners will help in their own rescue by clearing away rocks and debris that will fall from above during the drilling process. Chile's mining minister has cautioned that the rescue could take three to four months, despite estimates by some engineers that the evacuations could occur in about half the time. He said Sunday that officials have studied 10 different rescue plans, but that there are no alternatives that would get the men out in less time. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has voiced his support for the trapped miners. In a statement issued through a spokesperson, Mr. Ban says he was amazed and delighted to hear that all 33 men were alive. The spokesman said Mr. Ban wants the miners to know his thoughts will be with them during the difficult time ahead and that Chilean authorities are doing all they can to support and rescue them. Chile has also asked the U.S. space agency for help. A top NASA official says the agency will assist Chile with ways to keep the miners healthy while they are confined. Emergency workers are sending food, water and other supplies to the men through three small boreholes. The workers became trapped when part of the mine collapsed on August 5. Rescuers first made contact with them on August 22. The men had survived for 17 days on 48 hours' worth of emergency rations.
