Not again! Urgent action needed to save historic salt mine in Transylvania
The famous salt mine in Turda, one of Transylvania’s top tourist destinations, is facing serious threats due to recently discovered water infiltration. Local authorities and mine officials are calling for immediate action to avoid a disaster similar to the one at the Praid salt mine.
According to Maszol, the Turda Salt Mine (or Salina Turda) has been in operation for centuries and has played a key role not only in salt production but also in boosting tourism. Attractions such as the Theresa Mine, a Ferris wheel, underground salt lakes, and a boating area draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. In the past, the mine served purposes beyond economics; for instance, it was used as an air-raid shelter during World War II.
Recently, however, water has begun seeping into several underground galleries, posing a long-term risk of serious structural damage, subsidence, and even landslides. Cluj County Prefect Maria Fronea reported that water infiltration has been detected not only in the Theresa Mine, a key tourist site, but also in other areas of the mine, requiring immediate intervention. Turda Mayor Cristian Matei has proposed installing a pump system to collect and divert the incoming water in order to prevent further damage.
The situation is further complicated by the risk of flooding during heavy rains at nearby tourist lakes. Water overflow from one lake to another could trigger landslides, escalating the danger. Authorities have requested 30 million lei from the national budget to fund urgent repairs, but Economy Minister Radu Miruță stressed that the Turda salt mine is municipally owned and falls outside the jurisdiction of the state-run company Salrom, which manages the Praid salt mine. As a result, the ministry will not provide financial support unless it receives detailed technical documentation.
This crisis has sparked significant concern among locals and those involved in the tourism industry. The mine is not only a key part of Turda’s cultural heritage, but also a major economic engine, according to Krónika Online. Planned development projects—including a more than 120 million lei expansion of the József Mine to include playgrounds, basketball courts, an artificial river, and panoramic elevators—cannot proceed until the water issue is resolved. The recent closure of the Praid salt mine due to similar problems stands as a stark warning of the consequences of neglecting water infiltration and preventive measures.
Experts and local officials agree that the Turda Salt Mine urgently requires attention. Only swift and effective intervention can preserve this valuable historical and tourist landmark that holds significance not only for the local community but for the entire Transylvanian region. To prevent further damage, tackling the water infiltration, upgrading safety systems, and securing proper funding are all essential steps.
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