Start of Construction Works at Uranium Mine No. 6 of “PIMCU”, PJSC

On March 13, 2018, “Priargunsky Industrial Mining and Chemical Union”, PJSC has begun the construction works at uranium mine No. 6.

“Today Krasnokamensk and “PIMCU” begin the construction of uranium mine No. 6 and enter a new stage of their development. Our miners daily contribute their tremendous efforts to the development of the Russian nuclear industry so that the city could live and prosper every year. Today we are witnessing a historic event: the beginning of implementation of the project for which we have fought consistently and construction of which has the support of the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. No matter what diversification processes happen in economy, here, in Krasnokamensk, the key industry and the heart of the production is, of course, the production of uranium,” said the Governor of the Trans-Baikal Territory Natalya Zhdanova at the opening of the commencement meeting.

“The history of mine No. 6 has begun many years ago. A lot of work on preparing the site and shaft sinking has already been done. The country’s government always understood that the future of “PIMCU” lies in the development of Argunskoe and Zherlovoe fields. However, perestroika times hindered the implementation of new projects. Since then we have learned much, mastered new technologies, learned to model mining operations. Of course, it will take years of difficult and critical work for everyone from construction workers to Director General before we can produce our first ton of ore. Together we can make it a reality just like our veterans 50 years ago did when they came to these plains and established a wonderful functional enterprise,” commented First Deputy Director General and Executive Director of ARMZ Uranium Holding Co. Victor Svyatetskiy.

Participants of the commencement meeting at the construction site of mine No. 6 included PIMCU employees, Krasnokamensk citizens, students of the city's technical schools and, of course, veteran workers of the industrial complex. “50, 45, 40 years ago new plants, factories and mines were built in Krasnokamensk not just yearly, but often monthly. It was difficult for us, but we did it. Today, when I look at people working at the construction of new mine I'm certain they'll be able to overcome all the challenges within set timeframes. That’s how it is here in Krasnokamensk,” said the chairman of the “PIMCU” Veteran’s Council Victor Telyatnikov.

The construction was opened by Natalya Zhdanova, Victor Svyatetskiy and “PIMCU” Director General Alexander Glotov. “Today is the most important day for our Holding, for the city, for the region and for the Trans-Baikal Territory. Begin the construction!” proclaims Alexander Glotov and dump tracks drive onto the site, the power shovel scoops up the first bucketful of ground, the earthmover starts working and colorful balloons fly up into the sky.

Total area of the construction site is 3510 square meters. Atomspecstroy, LLC is conducting the works. The main step-down substation of mine No. 6 is planned to go operational before the end of 2018.

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The implementation of the investment project “Development of Argunskoe and Zherlovoe fields (construction of mine No. 6)” will allow producing a stable supply of the strategic material for the nuclear industry, develop the second largest Zabaykalsk city and preserve the jobs at the largest uranium enterprise in the country. The project has three stages planned. First stage, construction of infrastructure, is planned for years 2017 to 2019. It began with the construction of the main step-down substation which will supply power to the construction site and subsequently the mine itself. Afterwards “PIMCU” will begin the construction of surface mine complexes, main development operations and technical refitting of the leaching plant. In 2023 the first part of the mine will begin operation. In 2024-2026 the main development operations will be complete, and the mine will reach its design operational capacity.

March 13 is a very symbolic day for all citizens of the “uranium capital” of Russia. Exactly 50 years ago, on March 13, 1968, the construction of the Priargunsky Mining and Chemical Complex begun under order No. 068 of the legendary Minister of Medium Machine Building of the USSR, E.P. Slavsky.