At least 51 dead in Iran coal mine blast

A gas explosion in a coal mine in Iran's South Khorasan Province killed killed at least 51 people, and injured more than 20, state media said on Sunday.

Local media had reported that the accident was caused by a methane gas explosion in two blocks, B and C, of the privately-owned mine operated by the Madanjoo company.

Citing the head of Iran's Red Crescent, state TV said earlier on Sunday that 24 people were missing and their fate remained unknown as rescue teams were still 400 metres away from their likely location. They were expected to reach it by tomorrow after removing rubble and excess gas.

There were 69 workers in the blocks at the time of the explosion, state TV reported.

  

Reuters

Rescuers work following a gas explosion in a coal mine in South Khorasan Province, Iran September 22, 2024.

The mine went through inspections last month and complied with all safety regulations, labour minister Ahmad Meydari told state media, denying any case of negligence and adding that such "sudden events also happen in the most advanced mines globally".

An investigation into the incident has been ordered by the country's public prosecutor.

The explosion occurred at 9 p.m. (1730 GMT) on Saturday, state media said.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian sent their condolences to the victims' families.