China Coal Mine Blast Kills 82 in Shanxi, Dozens Still Missing

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Beijing: At least 82 people have been killed after a massive gas explosion tore through a coal mine in China’s Shanxi province, trapping dozens of workers underground and triggering a major rescue operation.

The blast happened in Qinyuan county, about 520km southwest of Beijing, after the mine reportedly issued a carbon monoxide alert late Friday, according to Chinese state media. Around 247 workers were underground at the time of the explosion, though officials have not confirmed how many may still be trapped.

Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered rescuers to “make every effort” to locate the missing miners and said those responsible for the disaster must be held accountable. He also called on local authorities across the country to strengthen workplace safety checks and prevent similar accidents.

Premier Li Qiang echoed the warning, demanding a fast investigation into the cause of the explosion and urging officials to tighten safety enforcement in mining operations.

Vice-Premier Zhang Guoqing and regional authorities were sent to the site to oversee emergency rescue efforts as crews continued searching through the damaged mine.

The tragedy has once again raised concerns about industrial safety in China’s mining sector. Shanxi is the country’s largest coal-producing province and has seen multiple deadly mining accidents in recent years. Just last month, another mining accident in the city of Luliang killed four workers.

The explosion also comes as China faces severe weather challenges. President Xi warned authorities to remain alert during the rainy season after heavy floods in Hunan province last week killed at least seven people and left 14 missing.

Pic : Representative Image