China coal mine blast kills 82, nine still trapped as rescue efforts continue

Taiyuan- At least 82 people have lost their lives and nine others remain trapped after a massive gas explosion at a coal mine in north China’s Shanxi Province, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.

The accident took place on Friday at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan County, located in Changzhi city. Rescue operations are continuing as authorities race against time to locate survivors.

China’s Ministry of Emergency Management said six national mine emergency rescue teams, comprising 345 personnel along with specialised equipment, have been deployed to assist in the operation.

Officials also confirmed that a person responsible for the mining company has been taken into custody in accordance with Chinese law as investigations into the incident begin.

Chinese President Xi Jinping directed authorities to make every possible effort to rescue trapped workers and ensure proper medical treatment for the injured. He also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion and demanded accountability for those responsible.

State media footage showed a massive emergency response at the site, with ambulances lined up and paramedics carrying stretchers. Reports suggest that more than 100 people have been hospitalised following the disaster.

The explosion has once again highlighted safety concerns in China’s coal mining industry. Although safety regulations have been strengthened in recent years, mining accidents continue to occur across the country.

Earlier this year, three workers were trapped after part of an underground tunnel collapsed at a coal mine in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province. The incident occurred in Zhenping County in Ankang city while workers were carrying out repair operations underground. Five workers managed to escape safely.

With inputs from IANS