SMA officials said at the time that preliminary investigations linked the sinkhole on the mine’s property to the over extraction of ore.
On Thursday, the watchdog confirmed four environmental violations, including over-extraction of minerals, unauthorized infrastructure modifications, and other breaches of the project’s environmental permits. In addition to the permanent closure of mining operations, the company faces a fine of $3.41 million.
The regulator’s head, Marie Claude Plumer, said that Lundin operated in unauthorized sectors up until the Copiapo River aquifer, which allowed more water to infiltrate in and subsequently weaken the rock mass.
“The company caused irreparable environmental damage,” she said.
Plumer emphasized the importance of adhering to environmental permits. “The rules are clear and must be followed. Companies are fully aware of the conditions under which they are allowed to…
