China mine blast kills at least 90 in worst disaster since 2009

A devastating gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in China's northern Shanxi province has claimed the lives of at least 90 people, marking the country's most severe mining disaster in over 16 years. The blast occurred late Friday, trapping 247 workers underground.

Rescue operations are currently underway at the mine, located in Qinyuan county. The cause of the accident is under investigation by local emergency management authorities. Shanxi is a major coal-mining region in China.

President Xi Jinping has ordered authorities to spare no effort in treating the injured and conducting search and rescue operations. He also called for a thorough investigation into the accident's cause and strict accountability in accordance with the law. Premier Li Qiang emphasized the need for timely and accurate information release and rigorous accountability.

Company executives responsible for the mine have been detained, according to state media Xinhua. This incident comes after China significantly reduced coal mine fatalities in recent decades through stricter regulations and improved safety practices. In 2009, a similar coal and gas outburst in Heilongjiang Province resulted in 108 deaths.

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spare no effort