A devastating gas explosion in a coal mine located in Iran’s South Khorasan Province has resulted in the deaths of at least 51 individuals and left 20 others injured, according to state media reports on Sunday. The incident, attributed to a methane gas explosion, occurred in two sections of the mine operated by the Madanjoo company.
Ali Akbar Rahimi, the governor of South Khorasan Province, revealed that this region supplies approximately 76% of the country’s coal, with around 8 to 10 major companies, including Madanjoo, actively operating in the area.
The rescue operation in block B has concluded, with 30 of the 47 workers present reported dead and 17 injured. Efforts are currently underway in block C, where high methane levels are complicating rescue efforts, which are expected to last an additional 3 to 4 hours. State media indicated that 69 workers were in the affected blocks at the time of the explosion.
As of Sunday, 24 individuals remain unaccounted for, while 17 injured workers have been transported to local hospitals for treatment. The explosion occurred at 9 p.m. local time on Saturday.
In response to the tragedy, President Masoud Pezeshkian extended his condolences to the families of the victims, stating, “I spoke with ministers, and we will do our best to follow up.” The nation mourns this significant loss as rescue efforts continue.
