After being trapped for over a month, Chilean miners have received a power cable that will provide electricity in the mine. The 33 men were working in the San Jose mine under the Atacama Desert when a collapse at the gold and copper mine’s main access tunnel left them trapped on August 5. The miners have remained in complete blackness every since.

The 2,300-foot power cable lowered to the men allows light to illuminate throughout the mine. Prior to the electricity, the only light the miners had available was their helmet torches. Reportedly, the miners have had difficulty sleeping over the last month because of the constant darkness. The electricity is to assist with regulating sleeping patterns because as nighttime approaches the men can turn out the lights to sleep.

Along with electricity, officials also lowered cigarettes after repeated requests by the miners. Health officials feared cigarette smoke would only add to the health risks of the miners while trapped. However, recently engineers completed pipes that pump fresh air and water down from the surface. A medical doctor on the rescue team Jorge Diaz confirmed the distribution of cigarettes to the miners. In an attempt to curb tobacco cravings, the men were initially given nicotine gum and patches. The miners will receive two packs per day to share according to Diaz, he said, “We are not going to give a pack of cigarettes to each of them, but rather a reasonable amount.” Officials are still denying requests for alcoholic beverages.

In the mean time, authorities are working to free the men. Drilling methods referred to as Plan A, B and C will create rescue tunnels where the men can be safely retrieved. Chilean authorities hope to have the men back on the surface by Christmas.

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