Codelco has announced the temporary suspension of development and construction works at the Andes Norte project, part of its El Teniente Division in Chile, citing concerns over emerging seismic risks.

The state-owned copper producer revealed the measure after recent technical analysis identified seismic phenomena at greater depths that differ from previously managed risks in the area.

The decision is based on data collected during the past six months, which recommended a further study of the deep seismicity present at the site.

For many years, El Teniente has operated alongside seismic events related to underground mining carried out with the panel caving technique.

Seismic activity connected to both mining processes and the construction of mining infrastructure has been recognised and managed with existing operational procedures.

These developments require enhanced monitoring, strengthened instrumentation and ongoing technical analysis.

Contractors working on the project have been informed of the suspension.

Codelco indicated that it is working with these companies to ensure an orderly halt to activities, addressing administrative, contractual and labour matters as required.

It is maintaining coordination with its contractors throughout the process to manage the impact of the suspension and ensure compliance with labour and contractual obligations.

In other parts of the El Teniente Division, mining operations continue.

The company’s operational seismic monitoring systems, safety protocols and preventive measures remain in place across production and other areas.

Codelco’s main activities involve exploring, developing and extracting mineral resources, processing them into refined copper and by-products for supply to customers worldwide.

These operations take place across seven mining divisions: Andina, Chuquicamata, El Teniente, Gabriela Mistral, Ministro Hales, Radomiro Tomic and Salvador, as well as at the Ventanas Refinery.