Digging for Billions: Inside the World's Mega Diamond Mines

8. Aikhal Diamond Mine (Russia)

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Another gem in Russia's crown of diamond mines is the Aikhal Diamond Mine, which lies about 450 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia). Run by Alrosa, the biggest diamond producer worldwide by volume, Aikhal has been a major factor in Russia's diamond output since its discovery in 1960 and starting of mining activities in 1961. In Yakut, the term "Akhal" means "glory," which fairly captures the significance of the mine for Russia's diamond business. With long, hard winters where temperatures may drop to -50°C and short summers with temperatures hardly over 20°C, the mine is in one of the most difficult settings for mining operations. Aikhal has often been among Russia's top producing diamond mines in spite of these challenging circumstances. Aikhal does open-pit and underground mining among other things. Beginning operations in 1961, the open-pit mine has descended depths of around three hundred metres. Alrosa moved to underground mining once surface deposits ran out, honing cutting-edge methods to dig diamonds from depths of up to 1,000 metres. This shift highlights the technical developments and engineering mastery that have maintained Russian diamond mining at the front of the sector. High-quality diamonds, including a sizable fraction of gem-quality stones, are the mine's speciality. Usually exceeding 2 million carats, Aikhal's annual output significantly adds to Alrosa's total diamond production. The size and quality of the Aikhal diamonds make them very prized; occasionally the mine produces remarkable stones weighing more than 50 carats. Like many diamond mines in outlying areas, Aikhal has changed the surroundings. With a population of about 14,000, the town of Aikhal developed around the mine and mostly depends on its activities. For this far-off area of Siberia, the mine has been vital in generating jobs and promoting economic growth. To serve the mining population, Alrosa has made large investments in social infrastructure including hospitals, schools, and cultural centres. Given the delicate Arctic habitat, environmental management at Aikhal provides particular difficulties. With an eye towards reducing the impact of the mine on local wildlife, water supplies, and permafrost, Alrosa has instituted thorough environmental monitoring initiatives To lower its environmental impact, the corporation has also made technological research and development investments including initiatives to lower greenhouse gas emissions and raise energy efficiency. Akhal is still very important in Russia's diamond business even as it shapes the future. The reserves of the mine are expected to support activities for several more decades, therefore guaranteeing its ongoing importance. Alrosa is funding more local exploration in search of fresh diamond sources that might prolong the life of mining activities in the area. Along with other Russian diamond mines, the Aikhal mine has been crucial in helping Russia take front stage in the world diamond market. Russia is leading in diamond mining technologies thanks to the knowledge gained at Aikhal in Arctic mining environments and deep underground extraction. The methods and experiences gained at mines like Aikhal could prove rather significant as the worldwide diamond business deals with issues of declining surface supplies and growing environmental scrutiny.