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28 dead in China’s mine accident
May 12, 2013, 10:32 am

108 miners were trapped in at the time of the accident (Xinhua Images)

108 miners were trapped in at the time of the accident [Xinhua Images]

The death toll from a colliery accident in southwest China’s Sichuan Province on Saturday has risen to 28, local authorities said on Sunday.

One hundred and eight miners were working underground when a gas accident happened around 2pm in Taozigou coal mine, in the city of Luzhou.

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, the work safety watchdog has noted.

Xinhua