China coal mine blast: At least 90 dead after gas explosion in Shanxi

A gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China’s Shanxi province killed at least 90 people, according to state broadcaster China Central Television. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities investigate the cause of the accident.

The explosion occurred at 7:29 p.m. local time on May 23 at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan county, Changzhi city. A total of 247 workers were underground at the time of the blast. Earlier reports said 82 miners had died and nine were missing.

According to Xinhua News Agency, China dispatched six national mine rescue teams to the site. Authorities said 345 rescue personnel equipped with specialized equipment were involved in the operation.

Xi Jinping orders investigation

Chinese President Xi Jinping issued instructions following the explosion, calling for «all necessary measures» to search for the missing miners and provide medical assistance to the injured.

Xi also ordered authorities to address the aftermath of the accident, conduct a thorough investigation into its causes, and hold those responsible accountable under the law.

The Chinese leader urged local governments nationwide to learn from the incident, remain vigilant about industrial safety, and intensify efforts to identify and eliminate potential hazards in order to prevent major accidents.

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