An explosion at a coal mine in eastern Iran has resulted in the death toll rising to 50 with the passing of one injured miner in the hospital, according to Iranian state television. The incident took place in Tabas, located around 540 kilometers southeast of Tehran. The explosion was triggered by a methane gas leak, a common occurrence in mining operations. Modern safety protocols typically include ventilation and other precautions to ensure the protection of workers.

Details regarding the safety measures in place at the privately owned Tabas Parvadeh 5 mine, which is operated by Mandanjoo Co., remain unclear as the company could not be reached for comment. Iranian state TV has reported that among the 17 miners who sustained injuries, nine were hospitalized, and unfortunately, one of them passed away on Wednesday.

The bodies of the 49 miners who lost their lives in the explosion have all been recovered, and the rescue operation was finalized on Wednesday morning, ensuring there are no individuals unaccounted for. At the time of the explosion, there were 66 miners present in the mine.

This tragic incident adds to a series of disasters that have plagued Iran’s mining industry in recent years. In 2017, an explosion in a coal mine claimed the lives of at least 42 people, while in 2013, 11 workers lost their lives in two separate mining accidents. Additionally, in 2009, a total of 20 miners lost their lives in various incidents. These tragedies have often been attributed to lax safety standards and inadequate emergency services in mining regions.