Mine explosion: what may have caused a tragedy that left more than 80 people dead in China

Mine certified as safe by the government explodes and kills 82 in China
An explosion at a coal mine in Shanxi province, China, left dozens of workers dead and injured and is already considered the deadliest mining accident in the country in more than a decade. The disaster occurred on Friday night (22), around 7:30 pm local time, when around 247 workers were already on the night shift, more than 300 meters underground.
According to Chinese authorities, at least 123 people were hospitalized in serious condition. The rescue mobilized a large operation, with 335 rescue professionals, 420 health teams, 86 ambulances and even the use of robots to access difficult-to-reach areas.
What could have caused the explosion
Initial investigations indicate that the accident may have been caused by an accumulation of methane gas - highly flammable and common in coal mines. When the gas concentration reaches levels between 5% and 15% in the environment, the risk of explosion is high.
According to reports, a carbon monoxide sensor even triggered an alert shortly before the explosion, indicating that there were dangerous gases in the location. Seconds later, the mine was hit.
Survivors' accounts
One of the workers who survived described moments of despair. He said he did not initially hear the explosion, but noticed smoke and warned colleagues to run. He then saw several workers fainting - he himself lost consciousness and only woke up when he was rescued.
Difficult rescue and critical scenario
The rescue teams faced extreme conditions underground. At some points, rescuers had to use improvised boats to cross flooded tunnels, as the explosion may have compromised underground water containment structures.
Authorities also indicate that some of the victims died not only from the explosion, but from drowning and exposure to toxic gases.
Serious irregularities
During the operations, rescuers identified several safety flaws in the mine. Among them:
Differences between the official map and the actual mine galleries
Unregistered tunnels, possibly opened irregularly
Lack of tracking devices on workers
Evidence of inadequate inspection
Experts say that unregistered changes to the mine's structure could create pockets of gas, significantly increasing the risk of explosions.
Despite this, the mine had a valid safety certificate, issued in 2023.
Reaction from authorities
President Xi Jinping ordered a rigorous investigation and severe punishments for those responsible. Depending on the severity of the irregularities, those involved can receive sentences ranging from prison to the death penalty, according to Chinese law.
The State Council opened an official investigation, and four other mines belonging to the same company were stopped. The company's owners and directors have already been detained.
The deputy prime minister was at the scene of the accident, which, according to analysts, demonstrates the political importance attributed to the case.
Context: dependence on coal
China is the largest producer and consumer of coal in the world. Even though the country invests in cleaner energy sources, such as electric vehicles, a large part of the electricity used comes from coal-fired plants, which keeps pollution levels high.
In recent years, the government has relocated plants to less visible areas, but continues to build new units and expand mineral exploration - which maintains risks like the one registered in Shanxi.
Situation of victims
The rescued workers remain hospitalized under observation.

In addition to physical treatment, many must receive psychological support due to the trauma of being trapped underground without knowing when they would be rescued.
Investigations continue to clarify the causes of the accident and define responsibilities.
Mine certified as safe by the government explodes and kills 82 in China
Reproduction/TV Globo
GloboPop: click to see videos from the Fantástico stage
Listen to Fantástico podcasts
THIS IS FANTÁSTICO
The Isso É Fantástico podcast is available on g1 and the main podcast apps, bringing great reports, investigations and fascinating podcast stories with the Fantástico journalism seal: depth, context and information. Follow, like or subscribe to Isso É Fantástico on your favorite podcast player. Every Sunday there's a new episode.

Source: G1

Continue lendo

27/05/2026

One of the most violent thieves in the city of São Paulo is arrested; see video

A 23-year-old man, considered by the police to be one of the most violent thieves in the city of São Paulo, was arrest...

27/05/2026

Djokovic advances at Roland Garros after scare against Frenchman

Serbian Novak Djokovic advanced this Wednesday to the third round of the French Open by beating Frenchman Valentin Roy...

27/05/2026

Federal Government signs service order for "middle section" on BR-319

The federal government signed today the first of four service orders for asphalting and recovery of the so-called "mid...

Top Cifras

Toque agora.

1 You Are Looking Old JayMay

2 Mi Cocodrilo Verde Caetano Veloso

3 Te Exaltamos CCLN Music

4 Samba Italiano Demônios da Garoa