Catastrophic Gas Explosion Claims Lives in Iran Coal Mine

A gas explosion in a coal mine in Iran’s South Khorasan Province killed at least 51 people and injured 20. The explosion, caused by methane gas, occurred in blocks operated by the Madanjoo company. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 24 people still missing.

A fatal gas explosion in Iran's South Khorasan Province coal mine has claimed the lives of at least 51 workers and left 20 injured, according to state media reports on Sunday.

The catastrophic incident was triggered by a methane gas explosion in blocks B and C of the mine, operated by the Madanjoo company. Governor Ali Akbar Rahimi indicated that 76% of the nation’s coal originates from this region, supported by around 8 to 10 major companies, including Madanjoo.

Rescue operations in block B have been completed, resulting in 30 fatalities and 17 injuries among the 47 workers present. Efforts are still underway in block C, where high methane levels present a challenge and are expected to conclude within 3-4 hours. In total, 69 workers were in the blocks at the time of the explosion, with 17 injured individuals transported to hospital and 24 still unaccounted for, as per Iran’s Red Crescent. The explosion occurred at 9 p.m. (1730 GMT) on Saturday. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his condolences and vowed thorough follow-up measures in televised remarks.