Heavy flooding in Harghita County has forced the closure of Romania’s Praid Salt Mine, one of Europe’s largest salt reserves and a major tourist destination. Cracks caused by rising water levels from the Corund River have compromised the mine’s structural integrity, prompting the evacuation of 45 homes and the launch of emergency rerouting of nearby streams.
The government has pledged 300 million lei (~$68M) in support for the mine and affected businesses. Authorities are racing to install bypass pipes and pump systems to remove the brine, while a long-term solution—such as a stormwater basin or stream redirection—is under review.
International experts and EUsalt have offered assistance, with equipment and desalination support on the way. Around 470,000 tourists visited the mine annually before its closure.
