28 killed, 16 injured in coal mine accident

CHENGDU - The death toll from a colliery accident in southwest China's Sichuan province on Saturday has risen to 28 after an injured miner died after rescue efforts failed, local authorities said on Sunday.

A total of 108 miners were working underground when a gas accident happened around 2 p.m. in Taozigou coal mine, Luxian County in the city of Luzhou, sources with the provincial work safety bureau said.

By late Saturday night, rescuers had saved 81 miners, while 27 others were confirmed dead.

Rescue efforts ended around midnight Saturday. A further investigation into the accident is underway.

The State Administration of Work Safety has ordered all coal mines in the province to suspend operation for a comprehensive overhaul and thorough checks.

Small-scale mines that fail to meet work safety conditions must be shut down, according to sources with the work safety watchdog.

Meanwhile, a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident should be carried out so that those responsible are dealt with in accordance with the law, the sources said.

Rescuers work in Taozigou coal mine in southwest China's Sichuan province May 12, 2013. [Photo by Liu Zhongjun/Asianewsphoto]

A worker injured in a gas accident in Taozigou coal mine receives treatment at a hospital in southwest China's Sichuan province May 12, 2013. [Photo by Liu Zhongjun/Asianewsphoto]