A devastating gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan county, Shanxi province, has claimed at least 90 lives, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The blast occurred on Friday evening while 247 workers were underground, state news agency Xinhua reported. Earlier reports had indicated eight fatalities, with over 200 workers safely brought to the surface.
Rescue Operations Underway
Footage from CCTV showed helmeted rescuers carrying stretchers at the site, with ambulances visible in the background. Rescue operations have commenced, and the cause of the accident is under investigation by the local emergency management authority.
One of the Deadliest Disasters in a Decade
This mining disaster ranks among the deadliest in China in the past decade. In 2023, a collapse at an open-pit coal mine in Inner Mongolia killed 53 people. In 2009, an explosion in Heilongjiang province resulted in over 100 deaths.
President Xi Jinping's Response
President Xi Jinping has called on authorities to “spare no effort” in treating the injured and conducting search and rescue operations. He ordered an investigation into the cause and accountability for the accident. Xi emphasized that all regions and departments must learn from this incident, remain vigilant about workplace safety, and resolutely prevent major and catastrophic accidents.
Premier Li Qiang's Instructions
Premier Li Qiang echoed Xi's instructions, demanding timely and accurate release of information and strict accountability.
Initial Reports and Safety Concerns
State media initially reported four deaths and dozens trapped after carbon monoxide levels in the mine exceeded limits. Some trapped workers were in critical condition. China has significantly reduced coal mine fatalities since the early 2000s through stricter regulations and safer practices.
Detentions and Investigation
Executives of the company operating the mine have been detained, Xinhua reported.
