I wonder if there are similar cases in other parts of the world? Tunnel workers will probably be the first ones facing the risk.
Researchers in New Zealand warn of erionite, a cancer-causing mineral "worse than asbestos", being released from rocks during tunnelling works.
Auckland Mayor has recently announced plans for a tunnel crossing under the Auckland Harbour (Waitematā Harbour). The construction is to start only at the end of the decade. Auckland University researchers think the risk is not ignorable.
Erionite is said to kill by causing mesothelioma, just like asbestos.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/426627/deadly-mineral-erionite-could-complicate-waitemata-tunnel
cover tunnel photo by: Matt Brown from London, England / CC BY
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https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/426627/deadly-mineral-erionite-could-complicate-waitemata-tunnel
Deadly mineral erionite could complicate Waitematā tunnel
www.rnz.co.nzA $7.7m hunt is on for a deadly mineral beneath Auckland, but has already run into objections from city rail tunnellers.