Jade Mine Landslide in Myanmar: A Terrifying Turn of Events
On the early morning of December 22, a catastrophic landslide rocked the jade mining hub of Hpakant, in Kachin State, pulling dozens—perhaps around 80—of workers into a watery grave of mining waste. The tragedy hit the community like a sudden, icy shockwave.
What Went Down?
The collapse happened at roughly 4 a.m., which translates to 2130 GMT on Tuesday or 5.30 a.m. Singapore time. The quick, silent slide thrust mining slurry into an adjacent lake, swallowing workers who were trapped in the factory pits.
Search Efforts
- Authorities arrived at the scene around 7 a.m.
- They are currently searching for survivors.
- So far there have been no sightings of bodies.
Why Is This So Dreadful?
For those who know the region, the incident is just one in a long chain of dangerous accidents at the jade mines. Here’s the backstory:
Jade in the Spotlight
- Myanmar produces 90 % of the world’s jade.
- Hpakant is the epicenter, where impoverished migrants from across the nation flock in pursuit of glittering jewels.
- Export to China drives a massive economy that’s controlled by mining firms linked to the military and various ethnic armed groups.
Worse than Ever?
- Last weekend, a similar slide claimed the lives of at least six miners.
- In July of last year, the worst disaster yet took the lives of more than 170 people—many of them itinerant workers—when a pile of mining waste collapsed into a lake.
- These incidents, coupled with unregulated mining practices, show how dangerous the jade industry truly is.
The Broader Picture
With the pandemic tightening economic pins and the recent military coup ramping up conflict, many more people are drawn to the jade mines in hopes of making a quick buck. The ousted government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi once pledged to clean up this industry in 2016, but activists say little has changed.
What Could Be Done?
- Enforced safety protocols and strict industry regulations.
- Transparent oversight that eliminates military and militia influence.
- International pressure to cut off the jade supply line to illicit actors.
For now, the nation holds its breath as search teams comb the jungle, hoping to bring back evidence of life. With a heavy heart, we remember those who may still be somewhere beneath that watery darkness.
