China mining disaster kills at least 82, worst in 17 years

A gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in northern China's Shanxi province has killed at least 82 workers, marking the country's worst mining disaster in 17 years. Two individuals remain missing as rescue operations continue.

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This is the first time such a big accident has happened here.

The tragedy unfolded Friday evening when the blast occurred at 7:29 pm, trapping 247 workers underground. State media reported Saturday that preliminary findings indicate the company operating the mine committed "serious" violations.

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Think about it. He’s at that age where he has both elderly parents and young children to support. Then he works in the coal mine, goes down the shaft and never comes back up. How are they supposed to go on living?

Local residents expressed sorrow for the victims and their families. Zhang, a restaurant owner who preferred to give only her surname, told AFP that many of the deceased were their families' primary income earners. "How are they supposed to go on living?" she asked, reflecting on the burden placed on those left behind.

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We can’t just casually comment on these things. We’re not aware of the details, we don’t know the exact cause or the specific situation.

Security was tight around the mine, with police blocking access for reporters. Ambulances and police cars were seen entering the cordoned-off area. A security guard at the mine's entrance declined to comment on rescue progress, stating he was unaware of the details. Workers at a nearby gas station and restaurant also refrained from commenting, citing a lack of specific information and a desire to avoid discussing sensitive matters.

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Working in a coal mine, this kind of accident is inevitable.