China mine disaster kills 90 as toxic gas traps dozens underground
Aftermath of China coal mine gas explosion that leaves at least 82 dead and dozens trapped underground
An 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.
Approximately 247 workers were present in the mine, operated by the Tongzhou Group, when the accident occurred, and many of the injured suffered from toxic gas exposure.
State media reported that carbon monoxide levels, a highly toxic and odourless gas, had “exceeded limits” at the mine, though the exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
President Xi Jinping called for “all-out efforts” to treat the injured and thorough investigations into the incident, while Premier Li Qiang emphasised timely information release and rigorous accountability.
Rescue operations are ongoing with 345 personnel from six teams deployed, and executives from the responsible company have reportedly been detained as authorities investigate the incident in China’s main coal mining province.
