Feds cite operator Alpha Natural Resources for mine inundation
By APThursday, January 14, 2010
Feds cite operator Alpha for mine inundation
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration says it’s cited Alpha Natural Resources for violations that contributed a flood that trapped seven men for nearly 24 hours at a West Virginia coal mine last year.
MSHA said Thursday that Alpha failed to maintain underground diversion systems and escape routes at its Mountaineer Alma A Mine near Wharncliffe. Heavy rain inundated the area May 9 and the mine flooded when culverts at its entrances were blocked by debris, mud and rock.
MSHA says water levels reached 9 feet in some parts of the mine, forcing the trapped men to seek refuge on high ground. They emerged unharmed after rescue crews pumped out the mine.
A spokesman for the Abingdon, Va., company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
