Following a devastating flood caused by the overflowing Korond stream, the famous Parajd Salt Mine—a key industrial and tourist site in the Székely region—now faces the risk of total collapse. According to Prof. Dr. Péter Szűcs, hydrogeologist and Vice-Rector for Scientific Affairs at the University of Miskolc, the worst-case scenario could see the entire multi-level mine structure give way.
The disaster escalated when floodwaters reached the Telegdy section—previously considered savable—forcing a complete evacuation and abandonment of underground rescue operations. Stored salt, equipment, and infrastructure have all been lost.
“This is one of the largest contiguous salt deposits in Central Europe,” said Prof. Szűcs in an interview with InfoRádió, adding that water is particularly dangerous for salt mines, as it rapidly dissolves the salt structures, threatening the pillars that support the mine’s stability.
While pumping out the water is technically possible, the high salt concentration poses a severe environmental threat. “The solution may end up causing more harm than good if not managed properly,” Szűcs warned. He emphasized that halting further water inflow is the first urgent step.
Source: University of Miskolc
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