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August 16, 2023

Landslide Kills at Least 32 People at Burmese Jade Mine
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In Burma, at least 32 people have been reported dead after a massive
landslide Sunday at a jade mine in the town of Hpakan. Several people
are still missing, while heavy rains have hampered rescue efforts. Burma
produces between 70% to 90% of the world's jade. Climate and human
rights groups have denounced the industry for its destructive impacts on
the environment, corruption and the deadly conditions faced by mine
workers. Jade mining is estimated to produce billions of dollars in
profits for Burma's military regime, with China being a major buyer. In
2020, more than 160 people died after torrential rains triggered
landslides in another jade mine in the region.


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