Underground Mining Threatens Court Buildings in Irkutsk Region: Incident in Usolye-Sibirskoye

A serious incident unfolded in Usolye-Sibirskoye, located in the Irkutsk region of Russia, nearly depriving the city of a district court building. According to a report from Bits.Media, a garage extension to an administrative building became the site of a fire, ignited by underground cryptocurrency mining equipment.

Eyewitnesses noticed thick smoke and promptly alerted the Emergency Situations Ministry (MChS). The swift response from firefighters prevented the flames from spreading to the main court building. The area of the fire reached 30 square meters, fortunately with no reported injuries. However, this incident raises significant concerns about the safety and reliability of judicial buildings, especially as underground mining becomes increasingly prevalent.

According to the press service of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations in the Irkutsk region, the cause of the fire was excessive electricity consumption, driven by a substantial amount of cryptocurrency mining equipment in the extension. The electrical grids couldn't withstand such a load, leading to their malfunction and ultimately the ignition.

This case underscores the challenges faced by regions leading in mining activities, including the Irkutsk region. Mining, both legal and underground, has become an integral part of the economy, providing access to cheap electricity. However, the growing volume of mining puts pressure on energy systems unprepared for such demands.

The governor of the Irkutsk region has expressed concerns about the disproportionate increase in energy consumption due to mining, repeatedly urging active regulation in this area. However, the cryptocurrency mining bill in the State Duma is not yet ready for the first reading, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to control and regulate mining.

It is crucial to note that the safety of courts and their surrounding areas is becoming a pressing issue in light of incidents like the fire in Usolye-Sibirskoye. Not only do these events pose physical risks, but they also have potential consequences for the judicial system and its operations, demanding attention from authorities. Such incidents emphasize the importance of developing strict norms and rules for the secure utilization of energy resources in the context of the growing activity in the cryptocurrency mining sector.