Movement of the walls of the central open pit was registered at Kumtor mine. A special commission was created by the order of the head of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan Akylbek Japarov.
As noted, it was created «in order to establish the reasons for acceleration of the pace of movement of the eastern and northeastern walls of the Central section of Kumtor mine, developed by Kumtor Gold Company CJSC.» The order is dated May 18, 2022.
The document states that the interdepartmental commission must within a week:
- Find out the reasons for the acceleration of the speed of movement of the eastern and northeastern walls of Central section of Kumtor mine;
- Submit proposals to Kumtor Gold Company on priority measures to reduce and stop the movement of the eastern and northeastern walls of Central section of Kumtor mine;
Kumtor Gold Company was recommended:
- To develop measures for the safety of mining operations in the area of impact of the eastern and northeastern walls of Central section of Kumtor mine;
- Based on the proposals of the interdepartmental commission, to carry out research work (surveys) and develop technical solutions to eliminate the causes of movement of the eastern and northeastern walls of Central section of Kumtor mine.
The interdepartmental commission has the right to involve responsible employees of state bodies, local government bodies and independent experts, as well as request materials necessary for its work.
Akylbek Japarov retained control over the execution of this order.
External management has been introduced at Kumtor mine, operated by a Canadian company, since May 19, 2021 by the Kyrgyz authorities. In April 2022, the parties announced settlement of disputes and entered into amicable agreement. It should come into force in mid-June.
