Tehran: A tragic gas explosion in a coal mine in Iran’s South Khorasan Province has resulted in at least 28 fatalities and left 17 others injured, according to state television reports on Sunday. The incident has also left 24 individuals unaccounted for.
The explosion was triggered by a methane gas buildup in two sections of the mine operated by the Madanjoo company, state TV reported. At the time of the explosion, there were 69 workers present in the affected areas.
“Seventeen injured people were transported to the hospital and 24 people are still missing,” stated the head of Iran’s Red Crescent, as cited by state media.
The explosion occurred around 9 p.m. (1730 GMT) on Saturday, marking a devastating event for the local community.
In the aftermath, President Masoud Pezeshkian conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims. “I spoke with ministers and we will do our best to follow up,” Pezeshkian remarked in televised comments.