Efforts to evacuate seven workers trapped in Freeport’s underground mine in Central Papua after a landslide on Monday (Sep. 8) remain highly challenging. As of now, the workers have yet to be rescued.
Responding to the situation, Professor Wahyu Wilopo, a geologist from the Faculty of Engineering at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FT UGM), emphasized that safety is the greatest technical challenge in the rescue. He noted that the confFreeport Landslideined and hazardous underground conditions severely restrict the accessibility of both rescuers and equipment.
“Oxygen supply, limited operational space, as well as the risks of rockfalls and water-saturated mud inflow, pose serious threats. The evacuation must be carried out swiftly yet cautiously to avoid new casualties,” the expert said on Friday (Sep. 19).
Professor Wilopo explained that geological factors significantly affect tunnel vulnerability. Faults in the rock can serve as pathways for water and mud infiltration, particularly during heavy rainfall.
Additionally, while the block caving mining system is efficient, it makes it difficult to fully control material collapse.
“The challenge lies not only in the existing volume of mud but also in the potential for additional mud inflows during the evacuation process,” he explained.
To accelerate the evacuation without compromising safety, Professor Wilopo highlighted the importance of modern technology.
“Robotics or remote-controlled systems could support the rescue process, thereby minimizing risks for the rescue team,” he said.
He further stressed the need for long-term measures by mining companies to reduce the risk of similar incidents.
These include hazard mapping for collapses and mud seepage, installation of early warning sensors, and the development of interconnected tunnel networks.
The provision of oxygen supplies, emergency food, and evacuation equipment at strategic points is also essential.
“Regular preparedness drills for all miners are crucial to ensure faster and more effective responses during emergencies,” he added.
Professor Wilopo also extended his hopes to the workers’ families, the rescue teams, and the company. He underscored that the success of the evacuation requires close cooperation among all parties.
At the same time, he reminded that the speed of rescue efforts must be balanced with caution to keep rescue teams safe.
“We all pray that this evacuation will soon succeed in saving the miners and keeping all personnel in the field safe and healthy,” he concluded.
Author: Kezia Dwina Nathania
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photograph: Freeport