Explosion in Iran's coal mine results in at least 51 fatalities

Sponsored Ad

A suspected explosion at a coal mine in Tabas, eastern Iran, has resulted in the deaths of at least 51 individuals and left 20 others injured, according to state media reports. The incident occurred on Saturday at approximately 9 p.m. local time, leading to emergency responses from rescue personnel.

Initial reports indicated that about 24 workers were trapped underground following the explosion, which was attributed to the accumulation of methane gas in two blocks of the mine operated by the Madanjoo company. At the time of the blast, there were 69 workers present in those areas. Footage aired on Iranian state television showed responders recovering deceased individuals from the site.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed condolences to the victims' families and has ordered immediate rescue operations. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosion has been initiated. Local prosecutor Ali Nesaei noted that gas accumulation has hindered search and rescue efforts, emphasizing that priority remains on aiding the injured and retrieving those trapped.

Mining accidents are not uncommon in Iran, which produces approximately 1.8 million tons of coal annually. The country has a history of deadly mining incidents, with notable disasters occurring in 2009, 2013, and 2017, often attributed to lax safety standards and inadequate emergency responses.