Death toll rises after explosion at Iran coal mine

The explosion took place on Saturday night, September 21, 2024, in Tabas, located about 540 kilometers southeast of Tehran. Initial reports indicated that around 70 miners were working at the site when the explosion occurred. Rescue operations have been hampered by the mine’s depth, with many bodies recovered showing no signs of blast injuries, suggesting the victims had perished from gas inhalation. Safety concerns have been raised, with lawmakers stating that the mine’s safety systems were inadequate or non-functional at the time of the incident. This disaster follows a troubling history of mining accidents in Iran, where lax safety standards have frequently led to tragic outcomes.

Background of the Incident

The Tabas Parvadeh 5 mine, operated by Mandanjoo Company, has come under scrutiny as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion. President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for immediate measures to assist the victims’ families and prevent future incidents by improving safety protocols in the mining sector. The Iranian mining industry has a history of fatal accidents, including a notable explosion in 2017 that killed at least 42 miners.

Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Rescue teams continue to work in challenging conditions, searching for any remaining survivors, although it is now believed that all trapped workers have perished. The situation has led to public outcry and demands for accountability regarding safety regulations and the operational practices of the mine. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring that such a tragedy does not recur in the future.