Mining company Rio Tinto has achieved a new breakthrough with its Diavik mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories, successfully completing the development and construction of Phase 1 of the A21 underground mine. This progress marks the start of commercial production from a new underground phase that promises to maximize the potential of its deposits.
The Diavik mine, recognized as one of the largest diamond deposits in the country, has been in operation since 2003 and has produced more than 144 million carats of rough diamonds . With the development of Phase 1 of A21, the continuity of production is assured until 2026, the estimated year for the closure of operations.
Rio Tinto expands Diavik mine with Phase 2
The success of the first underground phase prompted the company to approve an additional US$17 million investment in Phase 2 earlier this year. This outlay will fund further works to continue exploring and exploiting the mineral resources of the A21 deposit, maximising the value of the mine before its final closure.
During the Phase 1 construction process, more than 1,800 meters of underground tunnels were excavated. Over 20 months, the team completed more than 100,000 hours of work without any major incidents , highlighting the company’s strong commitment to workplace safety and mining operating standards.
A key operation for the region and the Diavik team
Matt Breen, Diavik Mine COO, said the new underground phase is excellent news for everyone involved in the project, from employees to local suppliers. “The decision to move forward with Phase 2 reflects the outstanding efforts and performance of the Diavik team,” said Breen.
Rio Tinto is also focused on active production as well as closure preparation and environmental restoration. Reclamation activities such as earthworks and clean-up have already begun to ensure that the environmental impact is minimal once the mine is closed.
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Source: Rio Tinto
Photo: Shutterstock
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