URUMQI, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- Rescue work continues after 18 people were trapped underground as a gold mine in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region collapsed on Saturday.
A total of 40 people were working underground when the accident occurred at around 1:40 p.m. on Saturday in Yining County under Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture. Twenty-two miners have been lifted out safely.
Around 2 a.m. on Sunday, rescuers detected blockage, airflow, and gas conditions in the mine.
"Now, the accurate location of the trapped people has been determined. However, the complex situation underground and the unstable surrounding rocks have brought many difficulties to the rescue work. The 18 people remain out of contact," said Lu Wei, chief safety officer of Xinjiang Nonferrous Metals Industry (Group) Co., Ltd.
After the accident, the rescue headquarters mobilized more than 300 people, over 80 rescue vehicles, and 467 sets of emergency rescue equipment overnight. Six drilling rigs and professional teams rushed to the scene for rescue. A plan has also been made by rescue experts and related government departments to ensure the safety and efficiency of the rescue. ■
