In a press release published on September 22, the National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA) categorically denied the existence of any leaks at the dams of the former Los Gigantes Industrial Mining Complex in Córdoba, and strongly rejected that this could be a source of environmental or watercourse contamination.
In response to media reports and statements from certain groups presenting false claims as “public knowledge,” CNEA reiterated that no leaks have occurred in recent years. Currently, the dam remains intact and only collects rainwater.
On September 12, the Site was inspected by a delegation led by the Secretary of Mining of the Province of Córdoba, the Acting Director of the Provincial Mining Authority, the Secretary of Environmental Police, and officials from the Secretariat of Sustainable Development under the Ministry of Environment and Circular Economy. The official report from that inspection confirms that “there is no evidence of failure or deterioration in the dams, and the levels of stored liquid pose no risk of runoff. Access to the site is restricted and controlled.”
“The agency conducts continuous monitoring at the site and it can be clearly stated that there is no risk of contamination beyond the perimeter of Los Gigantes. Any claims to the contrary lack technical foundation,” said CNEA President Germán Guido Lavalle.
CNEA also noted that, in addition to provincial inspections, periodic environmental radiological monitoring is carried out, with results reported to the relevant authorities, while the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (ARN) conducts regular audits.
“The latest results show that the environmental indicators considered remain stable and in line with regulated quality guideline levels. Downstream water flows from the site maintain the natural chemical and radiological composition of the area. The volume of the Main Dam remains below the certified volume (safety threshold), with a slight downward trend in volume,” stated Juan Guillermo Díaz, Deputy Manager of the Uranium Mining Environmental Remediation Project.
CNEA reaffirms its commitment to the responsible management of uranium mining environmental liabilities and to transparency in communication. Our goal is to provide assurance to the public and ensure that nearby communities are completely safe.
