A gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China's Shanxi province has killed at least 82 people, with nine others still missing, state media Xinhua reported on Saturday. The blast occurred late on Friday at the Liusheny... mine, operated by the Shanxi Coking Coal Group.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, but the chances of finding survivors are diminishing. The cause of the explosion is under investigation, though initial reports suggest a buildup of methane gas may have been responsible.
This is one of the deadliest mining accidents in China in recent years. The Chinese government has pledged a full investigation and promised to improve safety standards in the coal mining industry.