A devastating methane explosion at a coal mine in eastern Iran has claimed at least 30 lives and left dozens injured, according to state media reports. The incident occurred on Saturday night at a mine located in Tabas, approximately 335 miles southeast of Tehran, Iran’s capital.
The state-run IRNA news agency reported that emergency personnel were promptly dispatched to the scene following the blast. At the time of the explosion, an estimated 70 workers were inside the mine.
Initial reports from state television indicated that 24 miners were believed to be trapped inside immediately following the explosion. In contrast, 28 workers managed to escape and were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, but it is still unclear whether any miners remain trapped underground. Authorities are assessing the full extent of casualties and damage caused by the explosion.
Iran’s newly elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian, who is preparing to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York, has issued a directive calling for all possible efforts to be made to rescue any remaining trapped workers and provide support to affected families.
Iran’s mining industry has faced past criticism over inadequate safety measures and outdated equipment. As investigations into the cause of the explosion continue, there are growing questions regarding mine safety protocols and the need for preventive measures to avert future tragedies.
