St. Louis, US-based Patriot Coal Corporation reported on June 22 that its operating subsidiary, Eastern Associated Coal, LLC, has permanently terminated mining operations at its Harris No. 1 mine near Wharton, West Virginia, US as a result of sudden adverse geological conditions in the primary conveyor belt and travel entries of the mine. The Harris No. 1 mine was nearing the end of its projected mining life and was scheduled for closure in 2011.
"The decision today accelerated this impending closing, and, although earlier than we would have liked, is the right decision considering conditions at the mine now and what we could experience in the coming months," said chief executive officer Richard M. Whiting in a company statement.
A limited number of personnel will remain at the mining operation to close and reclaim the mine site in accordance with state and federal regulations.