Hushan mine's trapped workers must wait 15 days for rescue

Miners who have been trapped in the Hushan gold mine in the Chinese province of Shandong for over a week have been alerted they will have to wait another 15 days for their rescue owing to a blockage in their intended escape route.

22 workers were trapped in the mine, which is owned and operated by Shandong Wucailong Investment, a subsidiary of Chinese gold giant Zhaojin Mining, on January 10 following an explosion.

11 of the miners are alive, one has been confirmed dead and 10 are still missing.

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The accident wasn't reported for 30 hours, due to damaged communications equipment.

At least 500 rescuers have been tunnelling to attempt to reach the main group of miners, who are 600 metres from the mine's entrance under tonnes of rubble.

The shafts have enabled rescue teams to send them food and medical supplies while they wait.

The miners sent a note to their rescuers, pleading for them to continue their efforts.

The note read: "Don't stop trying to reach us. We hope the rescue continues. We remain hopeful."

Officials have said a blockage 350m down is far worse than expected.

Gong Haitao, deputy head of Yantai’s propaganda department, told a news conference they estimate at least another 15 days before they are able to mount a rescue.

Yantai reported the miners are very weak and they must hurry to save them.

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Water levels are rising and temperatures are dropping as the teams work to save the trapped miners.

According to Reuters, the area around the mine has been sealed off and medical professionals are on stand in protective equipment to ensure Covid-19 safety standards.

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