Referendum in Rășinari: Residents reject mining operations / 98.43% of voters voted against them

The residents of Rășinari commune, Sibiu County, categorically rejected mining operations within the locality at the referendum held on Sunday, November 8. According to data from the Permanent Electoral Authority, 2,194 people, representing 98.43% of the voters who cast valid ballots, answered “No” to the question concerning the acceptance of any mining operation within the commune. Only 35 people, or 1.57%, voted “Yes”.

Voter turnout was 50.64%. The public consultation took place in the context of the project proposed by the company Mineral Proiect Invest S.A. to extract magnesite rocks in the Valea Dobra area.

The investment, estimated at approximately 25 million euros, would involve developing an open-pit quarry over approximately seven hectares, for a period of up to 20 years. The project has sparked debate in the community, known for its cultural heritage, pastoral traditions, and tourism activities. Opponents of the extraction operation cited possible effects on the landscape, the environment, and local tourism.