Work on the TerraLunar Metals cossa mine at Jabhala was halted on Monday after only two days of excavation when a potential Site of Historical Significance was discovered.

Analysis of initial blasting at the site, returned some anomalous readings, which were promptly brought to the attention of the site foreman. “Those kinds of readings usually indicate a void. Sometimes they can be filled with combustible gasses and that can get dangerous,” said safety officer Pento N’Carlthon who was monitoring the blasting. “Given the terrain, we don’t usually find them that close to the surface, though. It was very strange.”

Preliminary investigation of the area showed evidence of ancient human habitation, so the location and its immediate surrounds have been declared a protected archaeological site. CEO of TerraLunar Metals, Wex Landus was excited by the find.

In a press conference held yesterday, he was eager to learn more about this site. “I’ve already met with the local Jabhala indigenous leaders, and I share their excitement about what might be discovered here.”

When asked about the miners whose jobs are affected, Ms Landus assured they would remain on the books. “As you know, there are provisions in place to protect workers in these circumstances. The government will reimburse them for half their usual salary, and we will continue to pay them the other half.”

“There were only 26 people staffing that mine anyway, so it’s not going to hurt our balance sheet, and the cultural index we gain more than makes up for the financial loss.”

“I understand that a couple of the older workers are grumbling. They’d rather be working. But that’s unavoidable. We’re going to allow a job swap to any of our other mines if they can find someone to agree to it. Most of the other workers are enjoying some family time or travelling. I know that a few are taking the opportunity to do more around their community.”

When questioned about what the delays would mean more broadly, Wex Landus was evenly pragmatic. “Obviously, there will be studies to see if we can work around the site without disturbing it further, but if not, then the ore will just have to wait. We know where it is. It’s unlikely to go anywhere.”