One of the largest mining tragedies in recent years occurred in northern China. As a result of a powerful gas explosion at a coal mine in Shanxi province, at least 90 people have died, and more than a hundred have been affected after being poisoned by toxic substances.
At least ninety people have died as a result of a gas explosion at a coal mine in China, reports NOS.
At least 90 people were killed in a gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China, Chinese authorities reported through the state news agency Xinhua. More than a hundred others were also hospitalized after inhaling toxic substances.
The accident occurred on Friday evening at the Lushenyu coal mine in Shanxi province. According to Chinese media, the gas explosion happened while 247 miners were working underground.
Xinhua reported that 345 rescuers have been dispatched to assist in the rescue operations at the coal mine. The entrance to the mine is narrow and small, so rescuers can only descend in small groups. This complicates the search for the last missing persons. The death toll may rise.
Initially, authorities reported that 201 people had been evacuated to safety. It is unclear whether this figure was incorrect or if there were actually more people in the mine than previously thought.
Despite tightening government safety regulations in recent years, accidents in mines have become more frequent in China. Particularly in major coal-producing provinces, accidents occur regularly due to gas explosions, collapses, and inadequate safety measures.
Shanxi province is known as one of the most important coal mining regions in China.
According to the state news agency Xinhua, Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged authorities to "make every effort" to assist those affected and conduct search and rescue operations. He also demanded an investigation into the causes of the gas explosion.
Mine owners and those responsible for safety have been arrested, state media reports.
