Glencore Initiates McArthur River Mine Recovery Post-Cyclone
After enduring the impact of Cyclone Megan, Glencore, a commodities major, is now taking steps to restore its McArthur River zinc and lead mine in Australia to normal operations.
The mine, located in the Northern Territory, suspended operations on March 18 in anticipation of the cyclone’s arrival. Cyclone Megan brought unprecedented rainfall, with a deluge of 274 mm within a 24-hour period on March 19, breaking a 50-year-old rainfall record set in 1974.
In response to concerns raised by community members, Traditional Owners, and the media, Glencore emphasized its transparency and openness during this challenging time. The company stated that it continues to monitor and assess key infrastructure to minimize environmental impact.
Prioritizing personnel safety, Glencore evacuated individuals from the Bing Bong loading facility on March 16 and halted mining operations on March 18 as the cyclone approached.
Despite challenges, Glencore ensured the well-being of 208 workers who were stranded overnight in administration buildings on March 20. These workers were provided with essential provisions and were relocated to the village the following day.
Glencore also reported an incident where a vehicle carrying two individuals was swept into water when a causeway collapsed. Fortunately, both workers were rescued without physical harm.
Despite the flooding, Glencore confirmed the resilience of key infrastructure, including the tailings storage facility and waste stockpile. While the open pit accumulated water, mining activities are gradually resuming in phased areas, with measures in place for water containment.
Glencore highlighted the robustness of the flood levee wall, engineered to withstand a one-in-500-year flood event, which performed as designed during the cyclone.
