A devastating gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in Changzhi city, Shanxi province, northern China, on Friday evening has resulted in at least 90 confirmed deaths, with dozens more feared trapped underground. The incident occurred when approximately 247 workers were present in the mine, operated by the Tongzhou Group. Many of the injured have suffered from exposure to toxic gases.
Details of the Incident
State media reports indicate that carbon monoxide levels, a highly toxic and odourless gas, had "exceeded limits" at the mine. The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 345 personnel from six teams deployed to the site.
Government Response
President Xi Jinping has called for "all-out efforts" to treat the injured and conduct thorough investigations into the incident. Premier Li Qiang emphasised the need for timely information release and rigorous accountability. Executives from the responsible company have reportedly been detained as authorities investigate the disaster in China's main coal mining province.
The tragedy highlights ongoing safety concerns in China's mining industry, which has seen numerous fatal accidents in recent years. The full extent of the casualties is still being assessed, with rescue teams working around the clock to reach those trapped underground.
