NZ mine explosion: Test shaft nearing completion (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

Rescuers are close to completing the drilling of a borehole into a mine in New Zealand where 29 men have been missing since an explosion on Friday.

The 15cm (6in) wide shaft had reached a depth of 142m (466ft) by 2230 (0930 GMT), 20m short of the area where the miners are believed to be trapped.

Probes will be lowered down it to check for gas and listen for signs of life. A robot will also be sent into the mine.

Prime Minister John Key says there is "every chance" the men are still alive.

However, senior officials also acknowledge that they are planning for all eventualities, including the "possible loss of life".
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more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11808860




Original story -- http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=115&topic_id=266148&mesg_id=266148