The lives of nearly 400 workers have been upended as Earl Mining Group announced the suspension of its operations along the Oun River, citing severe flooding caused by illegal mining activities. The unexpected decision has left hundreds of families uncertain about their future as the company battles the aftermath of the disaster. The flooding, triggered by heavy rains, overwhelmed the underground mining area when water from the swollen Oun River breached unauthorized mining pits connected to the company's operations. The deluge submerged critical equipment at Shaft 4, levels 6 and 7, with an estimated 80,000 cubic meters of water engulfing the area. The suspension of operations, the company estimates, will last for at least eight weeks.