Tragedy Strikes Gas Explosion in Iran’s Coal Mine Claims 51 Lives

A catastrophic gas explosion at a coal mine in Iran’s South Khorasan Province has resulted in the deaths of at least 51 workers and left 20 others injured, according to reports from Iran’s state media. The explosion, attributed to a methane gas buildup, occurred in two sections of the mine operated by the Madanjoo company.

The accident unfolded at approximately 9 p.m. local time on Saturday, with 69 workers present in the affected blocks, labeled B and C. The governor of South Khorasan, Ali Akbar Rahimi, stated that the rescue operation in block B has concluded, revealing a tragic toll: 30 fatalities and 17 injuries among the 47 workers located there.

Rescue efforts have now shifted to block C, where high methane density poses additional risks. Rahimi indicated that these operations could take around 3 to 4 hours to complete, as search teams work diligently to locate those still missing.

This region is critical to Iran’s coal supply, accounting for 76% of the country’s production, with around 8 to 10 major companies, including Madanjoo, operating in the area. The ongoing safety issues in the mining sector have raised concerns about worker protection and operational protocols.

Seventeen injured workers have been rushed to local hospitals, while 24 individuals remain unaccounted for. The Iranian Red Crescent has been actively involved in the rescue efforts, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

In the wake of this tragedy, President Masoud Pezeshkian extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, assuring the nation that government officials are taking immediate steps to investigate the incident. “I have spoken with ministers, and we will do our utmost to address this situation,” Pezeshkian stated in a televised address.

As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on locating the missing workers and providing support to the families affected by this devastating explosion.