China

Mining accident kills 31, 82 still trapped

Article published on the 2009-11-21 Latest update 2009-11-21 10:29 TU

Footage from CCTV
(Photo: CCTV)

According to state-run media, an accident at the Xinxing coal mine in China killed 31 people and left 82 trapped on Saturday. An explosion at the mine in Heilongjiang province, near Hegang city, occurred early in the morning and is thought to have been caused by a gas leak.

A statement from authorities said that 528 miners were working in the pit at the time, which is owned by the Heilongjiang Longmei Mining Holding Group.

It is thought a gas leak caused the explosion and rescuers are working to free those trapped underground.

Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang is on his way to the site, while President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao have given instructions on the rescue work.

The mine produces around 1.45 million tonnes of coal per year and is located around 400 kilometres east of Harbin.