Innovation meets sustainability in harsh Siberian conditions

Proceeding from its article, EcoNews highlights the innovative approaches industries take to balance environmental sustainability with operational efficiency. 

Hidden beneath the Siberian permafrost lies Aikhal, one of the largest diamond mines in the world, operated by Russia’s Alrosa. The mine produces nearly 12 million carats of diamonds annually and is now preparing for a major expansion. By deepening its activities, Alrosa aims to solidify its position as a global leader in diamond production, all while working in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

Alrosa has announced a project worth RUB 10 billion (approximately $154 million) to extend Aikhal mine's operational life until 2044. This ambitious plan includes a 300-meter underground extension, which will add almost 20 million carats to the mine’s raw material base.

As a result, the Aikhal mining and processing division will maintain an annual output of 500,000 tonnes of ore. "The project is attractive in that, in fact, it does not require any major re-equipment or new infrastructure," said Evgeny Denisov, director of the Aikhal Mining and Processing Division.

This reflects Alrosa's strategic approach to maximizing resources at minimal cost: while the extension will provide operational benefits, it will also strengthen the division's contribution to Alrosa’s dominance in global diamond mining.

Aikhal is part of a larger division that includes two open-pit mines, Yubileyny and Komsomolsky. Together, these operations play a key role in Alrosa's reputation as the world’s leading diamond producer by output. For example, in the previous year, this division alone mined diamonds worth approximately $1.2 billion.

Aikhal faces significant operational challenges due to permafrost, with the brief summer period causing the thawing of the ground, leading to frequent rockfalls and making open-pit operations nearly impossible. This is one of the reasons Alrosa places such a strong emphasis on underground mining assets.

To address these challenges, the company has implemented innovative solutions to ensure safety and stability in these harsh conditions. For instance, 1,400 square meters of berms have been reinforced using Geobrugg’s TECCO G65/3 mesh, secured with TITAN 40/16 nails and P33/50 spike plates. These berms are often deeply affected by erosion caused by thawing permafrost.

The installation process is complex due to the narrow window of thawing, which lasts from mid-May to mid-September. Logistics add another layer of complexity to Aikhal’s operations. During the winter months, goods are transported along the ice road on the frozen Lena River. In the summer, shipments are sent by ship to the European part of Russia, a journey that takes about 1.5 months. These logistical challenges highlight the ingenuity and resilience required to maintain operations in such a remote and unforgiving environment.

By Naila Huseynova