Gas leak in Iran kills seven workers at coal mine

In Iran, a tragic gas leak in a coal mine on Monday resulted in the death of seven workers, highlighting the ongoing safety issues in the country's mining industry. This incident took place in the northern province of Semnan, specifically near the city of Damghan, which is located approximately 270 kilometers from Tehran. Reports indicate that three of the deceased were Afghan workers. The Iranian authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the gas leak, as there are indications that safety protocols in the mine may not have been adequately followed. The area where the incident occurred is known for its mineral wealth, with Iran holding around 1.5 billion tonnes of proven coal reserves. However, accidents in coal mines are common in the country, with industrial mishaps claiming the lives of about 700 workers annually. Just last month, a separate incident saw an iron ore mine collapse in northwest Iran, resulting in another fatality. Moreover, a similar accident in the same coal mine in Damghan in 2023 resulted in six fatalities. Past incidents have often raised public outcry, including a significant explosion in 2017 that claimed the lives of 43 miners in Azad Shahr city, which led to widespread anger towards the government for its failure to ensure safety in mining operations. Following such disasters, authorities sometimes call for public mourning periods, underscoring the severity of these accidents and their effect on communities. The recent events emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive safety reforms and adherence to mining regulations in Iran’s coal mining sector. As investigations unfold, the government faces pressure to improve conditions and prevent future tragedies, ensuring that the lives of miners and their families are not once again jeopardized by negligence in safety practices.