Mariana Disaster: Victims Seek £37 Billion in Compensation in Lawsuit Against BHP in the UK

Introduction

In November 2015, a dam collapse at the Samarco iron ore mine in Mariana, Brazil, unleashed a torrent of toxic mud that devastated communities and killed 19 people.

Seven years on, victims of the disaster are seeking justice in the UK courts, filing a £37 billion compensation claim against BHP, the Anglo-Australian mining company that was part-owner of Samarco.

The Lawsuit

The lawsuit, which was filed in the High Court in London, alleges that BHP was negligent in its management of the dam and failed to take adequate steps to prevent the disaster.

The victims are seeking compensation for the loss of life, property, and livelihoods, as well as for the environmental damage caused by the disaster.

BHP's Response

BHP has denied liability for the disaster, claiming that it was caused by a natural event and that it took all reasonable steps to prevent the dam collapse.

The company has also argued that the UK courts do not have jurisdiction to hear the case, as the disaster occurred in Brazil.

The Legal Process

The lawsuit is expected to be complex and lengthy. The court will need to determine whether BHP was negligent and whether it is liable for the damage caused by the disaster.

The court will also need to consider the issue of jurisdiction and whether the UK courts have the authority to hear the case.

The Victims' Perspective

For the victims of the Mariana disaster, the lawsuit is a way to seek justice and compensation for the devastation that they have suffered.

They believe that BHP was responsible for the disaster and that the company should be held accountable for its actions.

The Company's Perspective

BHP maintains that it is not liable for the disaster and that it took all reasonable steps to prevent the dam collapse.

The company believes that the lawsuit is without merit and that it will be successful in defending itself against the claims.

The Future of the Lawsuit

The outcome of the lawsuit is uncertain. The court will need to consider a complex range of legal issues before reaching a decision.

However, the lawsuit is a significant development in the fight for justice for the victims of the Mariana disaster.