OREANDA-NEWS. On December 22, 2008 the ore body was accessed at 310 m Level at the Mir underground mine now in construction, reported the press-centre of Alrosa.

The event was scheduled to take place in May 2009. However, thanks to the efficient efforts of the construction team, it has happened well before schedule.

The main strength of the Mirny Underground Mine Construction Division was mobilized to attain the target. A team of most skilled and experienced specialists was formed. The tunneling rate was up to 320 m a month.

In 2008 total volume of underground mine works at the Mir Mine is expected to be 91 thousand m3.

The launch of the first start-up complex at the Mir Mine is scheduled on July 15, 2009.