Pascua Lama, Mining project in Andes Mountains, Chile-Argentina border.
Pascua Lama is a mining project located in the Andes Mountains along the Chile-Argentina border at very high elevation. The operation was designed to extract gold, silver, and copper deposits using infrastructure and processing facilities that spanned both sides of the mountain range.
The project was acquired in the 1990s and developed over many years with extensive plans for mining operations. However, Chilean authorities ordered its permanent closure in 2020 after concerns emerged about impacts on local water sources.
The Diaguita indigenous communities near the Huasco Valley initiated legal actions against the mining operations due to water resource concerns.
The area is difficult to access due to its high elevation and rugged mountain terrain, requiring specialized equipment. Visitors should know that the current closure means the site is not open for tours or visits.
The project drew legal objections from local communities concerned about impacts on water resources. These concerns played a role in authorities' decision to permanently close the operation.
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