These projects are on hold because of price. In closing it is also important to point out that silver has generally been in a bear market for more than twenty years. There has been very little focused silver exploration during that time. Additionally, it takes nearly five years to get a new mine producing in South America. For North America it takes ten years from the time the discovery is made, permits issued, construction completed, and actual metal is extracted.
Mining is very cost intensive and energy intensive.
Much thought and study will be used to determine just what silver mining projects are feasible in the future. Mining companies are not going to react to a sudden price improvement nor could they if they wanted. Fundamentally, the silver market remains one of the best areas to invest. Again, I am not certain, however all factors are indicating that it will be.