A tragic gas explosion in a coal mine in Iran’s South Khorasan Province has claimed the lives of at least 51 workers and left 20 others injured, according to reports from Iranian state media on Sunday. The devastating incident was triggered by a methane gas explosion within two sections of the mine, identified as blocks B and C, which are operated by the Madanjoo company.
South Khorasan Province Governor Ali Akbar Rahimi, speaking to state television, noted that this region is a critical source of coal for the country, accounting for 76% of Iran’s coal production. Around 8 to 10 major mining companies, including Madanjoo, operate in the area.
The rescue operation in block B has concluded, revealing the full extent of the disaster. Of the 47 workers present in this section, 30 were confirmed dead, while 17 sustained injuries. Rescue efforts are now concentrated on block C, where operations are underway despite high methane levels, which are complicating the process. Authorities estimate that it will take an additional 3 to 4 hours to complete the operation in this area.
At the time of the explosion, 69 workers were inside the affected blocks. The head of Iran’s Red Crescent earlier reported that 17 of the injured had been transported to the hospital, and 24 miners remained unaccounted for as of Sunday.
The explosion occurred at 9 p.m. local time (1730 GMT) on Saturday. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing in a televised address that he had spoken with key ministers and would ensure that all necessary follow-up measures are taken to address the aftermath of the incident.
