Iran has been struck by one of its worst industrial disasters as the death toll from an explosion at a coal mine in Tabas, located in the country's east, has risen to at least 49. The tragic incident occurred when a methane gas leak on Saturday triggered a powerful explosion at the mine, which is situated approximately 540 kilometers southeast of Tehran.
According to provincial emergency official reports, around 70 workers were present inside the mine at the time of the blast. Despite initial rescue efforts, it is believed that the remaining trapped workers have unfortunately perished in the disaster.
This is not the first time that Iran's mining industry has faced such calamities. In 2017, a coal mine explosion claimed the lives of at least 42 individuals. Similarly, in 2013, 11 workers lost their lives in two separate mining incidents, while in 2009, 20 workers were killed in various accidents.
These tragedies have often been attributed to lax safety standards and inadequate emergency services in mining areas. The government has faced criticism for failing to implement stringent safety measures to protect the lives of miners, leading to repeated fatalities in the mining sector.
The nation mourns the loss of these brave workers and hopes for improved safety regulations to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
