The accident occurred at approximately 2:55 PM local time on Friday at the Pingdingshan Tianan Coal Mine, reportedly due to a coal and gas outburst.

Initial reports indicate that 45 individuals were present in the mine when the incident occurred.

As of now, eight fatalities have been confirmed, 15 remain missing, and 22 have been contacted by rescuers and are awaiting rescue.

Fortunately, 380 out of 425 individuals working underground at the time managed to safely exit the mine.

Local authorities have mobilized emergency personnel and launched a full-scale rescue operation to locate and safely bring back the missing miners.

Investigations into the cause of the accident are underway, with officials seeking to determine the specific factors that contributed to the coal and gas outburst. (ILKHA)