The mining operations in Kiruna are impacting the land more than anticipated, necessitating the relocation of an additional 6,000 residents. LKAB's CEO highlights the challenge but also sees it as an opportunity for future investment. The relocation is estimated to cost 22.5 billion SEK over the next decade.
Kiruna Faces New Mining Shock: 6,000 Residents to Relocate
Kiruna Faces New Mining Shock: 6,000 Residents to Relocate
The mining operations are affecting the land more than expected, and now an additional 6,000 people in Kiruna must relocate.
"It will be a challenge for the residents of Kiruna, the municipality, and us at LKAB," says CEO Jan Moström.
The mining in Kiruna is impacting a larger area than previously thought.
Now, an additional 2,700 homes and 6,000 people will need to move.
An "opportunity," says LKAB's CEO in a press release.
"But fundamentally, it is positive that we have so much ore that we can continue operations and invest in our shared future," he says in the press release.
Cost: 22.5 Billion SEK
To continue mining, the expanded area needs to be replaced over the next ten years. The relocation is estimated to cost approximately 22.5 billion SEK.
"Even if we stopped the mine today, the deformations would continue for many years. If we want to continue having a mine in Kiruna, the area must be transformed. A viable Kiruna is a prerequisite for our operations, and for us and society to continue developing, we need to carry this out in close cooperation with those affected," says Stefan Hämäläinen, Director of Community Development at LKAB.