A gas explosion occurred at a coal mine in China. According to the latest reports, at least eight people have died, and dozens of miners remain trapped underground.
A rescue operation is ongoing in northern China following a gas explosion at a coal mine in Shanxi province. The accident occurred on Friday evening at the Lushen Mining site, while 247 miners were underground.
By Saturday morning, rescuers had managed to bring 201 people to the surface. The deaths of eight miners have been confirmed, while another 38 individuals remain trapped underground.
According to Chinese state media, a dangerous level of carbon monoxide was detected in the mine.
Reports indicate that some of the remaining miners are in critical condition. Rescue efforts are continuing under challenging conditions.
Importantly, despite increased safety measures in recent years, mining accidents in China still occur regularly. This is particularly true in the coal industry, where high production loads and difficult working conditions persist.
Shanxi province is considered one of the largest coal-producing regions in the country.
China remains the world's largest consumer of coal, although it is simultaneously actively developing renewable energy and attempting to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Nevertheless, coal still plays a key role in the country's energy system.
Following the accident, authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion.
Rescuers continue to search for individuals who remain underground.
