7. Coal Mine Explosion in China
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| Lao Ye Temple Coal Mine Shaft. Image credit : LHOON via Flickr |
On October 29, 2011, a gas explosion at the Xialiuchong Coal Mine in Hengyan, Hunan killed 29 miners and injured 6 others. Accidents at coal mines in China are not uncommon, as many mines disregard safety standards. In 2011, 1,973 miners were killed in accidents. The government, however, continues to increase its safety measures, and the actions are having a positive effect -- the 2011 death total was 19% lower than that of 2010.
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