China thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his heartfelt condolences following a devastating mining accident in China's Shanxi Province, which has claimed at least 82 lives and left two individuals missing. Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, stated on Sunday that India's sympathy and support were "deeply valued" in response to PM Modi's message on social media platform X.
Rescue and Relief Operations Underway
The remarks came as rescue and relief operations continued after a gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan County on Friday evening. In a post on X, Ambassador Feihong expressed gratitude, saying, "We appreciate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's kind message of condolence following the mining accident in Shanxi Province. The sympathy and support from the people of India are deeply valued at this difficult time. Our thoughts are with the victims, the missing, and their families. We are making every effort in the rescue and relief operations."
PM Modi's Condolences to President Xi
Prime Minister Modi had conveyed his condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday. In his post on X, he wrote, "Saddened by the loss of lives in a mining accident in Shanxi Province in China. On behalf of the people of India, my condolences to President Xi Jinping and the people of China. May the bereaved families find strength in this tragic hour. Praying for the early and safe recovery of all remaining missing persons."
Details of the Accident
According to Chinese officials, the gas explosion occurred at 7:29 PM local time on Friday at the Liushenyu coal mine. Authorities confirmed on Saturday that 82 people had died, while two others remained missing. A total of 128 people are undergoing treatment in hospitals, including two in critical condition and two in serious condition.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Officials investigating the incident reported that toxic and harmful gases under the mine shaft had exceeded safe limits for a prolonged period, raising concerns over the possibility of secondary disasters. Authorities also stated that the company operating the mine had committed "serious violations of laws." Those responsible for the company have been placed under control, while production at its coal mines has been halted pending a comprehensive safety overhaul, according to Chen Xiangyang, mayor of Changzhi City, which administers Qinyuan, as reported by state-run Xinhua news agency.
President Xi's Directives
Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out efforts to rescue the missing and ensure treatment of the injured. He also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion and directed authorities to pursue accountability in accordance with the law. The investigation team said it would determine the exact cause of the accident, examine the responsibilities of local authorities, industry regulators, and the company involved, and impose strict penalties under relevant laws and regulations.
