In late 2023, rescuers lowered a camera into a 2.6-kilometer deep mineshaft in South Africa. The camera reached 1,280 meters underground, capturing miners waiting for help.
Rescuers raised the camera, attached a notepad and pen, and lowered it again. The miners quickly wrote back, revealing 480 people were trapped and needed help.
New Rescue Technology
Rescuers used a special cage designed for deep shafts. The cage had cameras and a communication system. It became crucial for rescuing the miners.
Tragic Deaths and Criticism
At least 87 miners died from starvation and dehydration. Authorities faced strong criticism for cutting off food supplies, a move some officials called “smoking them out.”
Rescue Speed Increases
Initially, rescuers planned to save two miners at a time. They thought the operation would take 16 days. But after reassessing, they rescued up to 13 miners at once, speeding up the process.
Volunteers’ Help
Local volunteers worked with miners to manage the crowd. They focused on rescuing those in the worst condition first. The camera gave real-time footage to rescuers. This helped them check for flooded shafts and rubble, guiding their next steps.
The cage could carry six people at greater depths. But at 1,280 meters, it carried 13 miners at once. Less rope weight made the operation faster.
