A devastating gas explosion occurred in a coal mine in Iran’s South Khorasan Province, claiming the lives of at least 51 people and injuring 20 others, as reported by Iran’s state media on Sunday.
The incident, attributed to a methane gas explosion, transpired in two sections, identified as blocks B and C, of the mine operated by the Madanjoo company.
This area is significant for the country’s coal supply, with 76% of Iran’s coal sourced from the region, as noted by Ali Akbar Rahimi, the governor of South Khorasan Province.
He stated, “around 8 to 10 big companies are working in the region including Madanjoo company.”
As rescue operations unfolded, it was reported that the mission in block B had been successfully completed.
Out of 47 workers present in that section, 30 tragically lost their lives while 17 sustained injuries.
Rahimi indicated that rescue efforts were ongoing in block C, where high levels of methane posed additional risks, stating that operations would take approximately 3 to 4 hours.
At the time of the explosion, there were a total of 69 workers in the affected blocks. According to the head of Iran’s Red Crescent, “Seventeen injured people were transported to the hospital and 24 people are still missing.”
The explosion struck at 9 p.m. local time (1730 GMT) on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the community.
In response to the tragedy, President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, asserting, “I spoke with ministers and we will do our best to follow up,” during his televised remarks.
This incident highlighted ongoing safety concerns in Iran’s mining industry, particularly in regions that contribute significantly to the nation’s coal production.
Rescue teams continue to work tirelessly as they search for the missing and tend to the injured in this tragic aftermath.
