China coal mine explosion kills at least 82 people

BEIJING: A gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China’s Shanxi province has killed at least 82 people, according to state media reports on Saturday. It is being described as one of the deadliest mining accidents in recent years.

The blast took place at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan county late Friday. At the time of the incident, 247 workers were working underground. Nine people are still missing.

Rescue teams are continuing search operations in hopes of finding survivors, while authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered officials to do everything possible to treat the injured and speed up rescue efforts. He also called for a full investigation and strict action against those responsible.

Premier Li Qiang also instructed authorities to ensure transparent reporting and strong accountability in the case.

Officials said the cause of the gas explosion is still under investigation. Earlier reports had given a lower death toll, but it was later updated as more information came in.

Company executives linked to the mine have been detained, state media reported.

China has improved mine safety over the years, but serious accidents still happen, especially in older mines. The Liushenyu blast is now among the worst mining disasters in the country in recent times.