Shanxi: The death toll from a gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China’s Shanxi province has risen sharply to 90, according to reports from state media. Rescue operations continued through Saturday as authorities worked to locate remaining workers and determine the cause of one of the deadliest mining accidents reported in the country in recent years.

The explosion occurred late on Friday at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan county while hundreds of workers were reportedly on duty underground.

Explosion struck during mining operations

According to reports, the incident took place at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan county in Shanxi province.

State media earlier reported that around 247 workers were present underground at the time of the explosion.

Initial reports had indicated a significantly lower number of fatalities, while more than 200 workers were said to have been safely brought to the surface.

However, updated information later confirmed a sharp rise in casualties, taking the death toll to 90.

Authorities have not yet provided detailed clarification regarding the increase in the number of deaths reported.

Rescue operations continue at site

Emergency teams and rescue personnel continued search and rescue operations at the mining site following the explosion.

Local emergency management authorities stated that efforts remain under way to locate and assist affected workers.

Officials said the exact cause of the incident is still being investigated.

Rescue operations in underground mining incidents often involve difficult conditions due to unstable environments, hazardous gases and restricted access areas.

Authorities are expected to continue operations until all workers have been accounted for.

Chinese leadership orders investigation

Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly instructed authorities to make every effort to treat the injured and intensify rescue activities.

He also called for a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the explosion and directed officials to ensure accountability in accordance with the law.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang also reportedly stressed the importance of accurate and timely release of information while calling for strict accountability measures.

Officials stated that relevant agencies have been directed to examine the circumstances leading to the incident.

Company executives reportedly detained

According to reports, executives associated with the company responsible for operating the mine have been detained by authorities.

Further details regarding the detentions or possible legal proceedings have not yet been disclosed.

China has reduced coal mining fatalities significantly over the past two decades through stricter regulations and enhanced safety practices.

However, mining accidents linked to gas explosions, flooding and structural failures continue to occur periodically.

The Liushenyu coal mine incident is being described as one of the deadliest reported mining disasters in China in the last decade and is expected to prompt further scrutiny of industrial safety measures.