President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has conveyed heartfelt condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping following the devastating gas explosion at the Liushenyu Coal Mine in China’s Shanxi Province, one of the country’s deadliest mining disasters in nearly two decades.
In an official message, President Muizzu expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, which claimed at least 82 lives and left many others injured. On behalf of the Government and the people of the Maldives, he extended sincere sympathies to the families who lost loved ones and reaffirmed the Maldives’ solidarity with China during this difficult time of mourning.
The President also wished strength and resilience to those affected by the disaster and expressed hope for the success of ongoing rescue and recovery operations being carried out by Chinese authorities.
According to officials, 247 workers were underground when the explosion occurred at the Liushenyu shaft on Friday evening. More than 100 miners were rescued, while hundreds of emergency personnel were deployed to the site as search efforts continued.
Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that no effort must be spared in treating the injured and locating survivors. Authorities have also announced a rigorous investigation into the incident, warning that those found responsible would face severe punishment.
State media reported that many victims suffered from inhalation of poisonous gas, while 128 people remain hospitalised, including several in critical condition. Rescue teams have since deployed mine inspection robots equipped with gas sensors and infrared cameras to reach inaccessible underground areas and search for signs of life.
In response to the tragedy, local authorities in Shanxi Province have ordered immediate safety inspections across coal mining operations, while production has been suspended at all mines operated by the company managing the Liushenyu Coal Mine.
