Coal Mine Explosion in China
Monday, 2026/05/25158 words2 minutes2148 reads
At least 82 people have been killed and two remain missing after a gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China's Shanxi province. The blast occurred on Friday evening at the Liushenyu Coal Mine, where 247 workers were on duty.
Rescue teams saved more than 100 people, and 128 injured workers are receiving hospital treatment. Most victims were affected by inhaling poisonous gas. One survivor described seeing sudden smoke and smelling sulphur before people began collapsing from the fumes.
President Xi Jinping ordered that no effort be spared in rescue operations. Officials have launched an investigation and promised severe punishment for those responsible. The mine had previously been listed as having "severe safety hazards" in 2024.
This is China's worst mining disaster since 2009, when an explosion killed over 100 people. Despite improved safety standards in recent years, accidents continue to occur in China's coal industry, which produces more coal than any other country in the world.
