Photo by: Rio Tinto
Name of the Project
Diavik A21 underground project.
Location
Northwest Territories, Canada.
Project Owner/s
Rio Tinto.
Project Description
The project involves the underground mining below the existing A21 openpit at the Diavik diamond mine.
Phase 1 of underground mining at the A21 pipe is expected to deliver an additional 1.4-million carats of rough diamonds.
Phase 2 is expected to deliver an additional 800 000 ct of rough diamonds.
Potential Job Creation
Current employees and contractors will be transferred from other areas of the mine for the construction and production phases of the project.
Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
Not stated.
Capital Expenditure
Rio Tinto has approved a $40-million investment in the first phase.
Planned Start/End Date
Based on the updated mine plan and production schedule, including the A154N and A154S pipes, and subject to approval of Phase 2 of the A21 underground project, Diavik is now expected to end commercial production in the first quarter of 2026.
Diavik expects to seek approval for Phase 2 of the underground project in the first half of 2024.
Latest Developments
Rio Tinto approved Phase1 of the project in February 2023.
Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
None stated.
Contact Details for Project Information
Rio Tinto Diamonds communications manager Robyn Ellison, cell +61 417 968 359 or email robyn.ellison@riotinto.com.