On October 21, 1966, the small Welsh village of Aberfan was struck by a devastating tragedy when a massive volume of slurry slipped down into the village, engulfing the local school. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of 116 children and 28 adults, making it one of the worst disasters in Welsh history.

The Aberfan disaster was caused by the collapse of a colliery spoil tip, which released a huge amount of slurry that cascaded down the mountainside and into the village below. The slurry engulfed Pantglas Junior School, where many of the children were attending lessons that morning. The school was completely buried, trapping and ultimately killing scores of students and teachers.

The aftermath of the Aberfan disaster was devastating, with the community of Aberfan and the rest of Wales left in shock and mourning. The disaster prompted an outpouring of support and donations from people all over the world, as well as a national inquiry into the causes of the tragedy and the responsibility of those involved.

To learn more about the Aberfan disaster and its impact on the village and the wider community, you can visit the Aberfan Memorial website. This site provides a wealth of information about the disaster, including personal accounts from survivors and family members of the victims, as well as details about the ongoing memorial efforts in Aberfan.

The Aberfan disaster remains a somber reminder of the dangers of industrial waste and the importance of ensuring the safety of communities living near mining and industrial sites. The tragic loss of life in Aberfan continues to be commemorated and remembered, serving as a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability in the management of industrial waste and environmental hazards.

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