At least 46 have been killed in a mine explosion in China's Hunan province, state media report.
Rescue workers rescued 26 trapped workers after the blast at a mine near Pingdingshan city, Xinhua news reported.
State television said a store of gunpowder kept underground had detonated at 0140 (1740 GMT on Sunday).
China's mines are among the world's most dangerous, with thousands of miners killed in accidents every year.
According to official figures, 2,631 coal miners died in 1,616 mine accidents in China in 2009, down 18% from the previous year.
But independent labour groups say the figure could be much higher, as accidents are covered up to prevent mine closures.
Most accidents are blamed on failures to follow safety rules, including a lack of required ventilation or fire control equipment.
The government has stepped up efforts to improve safety in the mining industry in recent years, by enforcing regulations and taking measures to close unregulated mines.
Coal-generated power accounts for about 70% of China's electricity needs.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment