In 2024, a Chinese mine was listed as ‘one of the severe safety hazards.’ Now, it just blew up, killing 82 as the worst mining disaster in a decade

A gas explosion at the Liushenyu Coal Mine in Shanxi province has left 82 people dead, marking the most significant mining disaster in China since 2009. Rescue teams remain on the ground as two individuals are still missing following the incident that occurred on Friday.

According to the BBC, officials initially estimated the death toll to be higher, but they later revised the figure downward late on Saturday. The confusion stemmed from an incorrect headcount during the initial chaos of the rescue. There were 247 workers on duty when the blast occurred, and while more than 100 people were saved, 128 individuals are currently receiving treatment in hospitals. Two are reported to be in critical condition.

Immediately after the explosion, the mines were filled with a poisonous gas, which has been the primary cause of injury. The specific type of gas has not been confirmed, but reports noted that carbon monoxide levels, a gas that is both highly toxic and odorless, had “exceeded limits” in the area.

Every mining accident in history has been terrifying

Wang Yong, a miner who survived the blast, described the terrifying moments as the gas spread through the tunnels. “I smelled sulphur, the same smell you get from blasting. I shouted at people to run. As we were running I could see people collapsing from the fumes. Then I blacked out too,” he said. He added, “I lay there for about an hour or so before I came round on my own. I woke up the person next to me and we got out together.”

Rescue efforts have been complicated by difficult conditions like water that has built up near the site. However, the bigger hurdle has been discrepancies between the mine’s blueprints and the actual layout of the facility. 

To navigate these challenges, rescuers deployed specialized mine inspection robots. These units are equipped with infrared cameras and gas sensors, allowing workers to collect data and search for signs of life in unreachable areas. The Ministry of Emergency Management has dispatched 345 personnel from six different rescue teams to assist with the ongoing operation.

The history of the Liushenyu mine raises serious concerns regarding its operational standards. In 2024, the site was officially listed as one of the “severe safety hazards” by the Chinese National Mine Safety Administration. 

Furthermore, the Tongzhou Group, which manages the mine, reportedly received two administrative penalties in 2025 for safety violations. In response to the tragedy, local officials have ordered immediate safety inspections across Shanxi province, and production has been suspended at all four mines operated by the Tongzhou Group.

President Xi Jinping has directed that no effort be spared in the search for survivors and the treatment of the injured. Meanwhile, the state council has promised a “rigorous” investigation into the explosion, stating that anyone found responsible will be “severely punished.” Some members of the mine management team have already been detained as the investigation begins. 

This incident is also making waves because China has been aggressively pursuing green energy to offset its reliance on coal, something the American administration seems to be struggling with. Not to mention that the country recently hosted high-profile visits from President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin.