Russia mine blast death toll rises to 44
The confirmed death toll after an explosion at a coal mine in Siberia has risen to 44, while the fate of 46 others still underground is unknown, Russian officials said today.
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin was visiting the Raspadskaya mine, which was hit by two explosions on Saturday and Sunday.
The second blast happened when rescue workers were already underground. Mr Putin was asking whether the rescue operation observed proper procedures.
Rescue work was halted after the second explosion.
Emergencies Minister Sergei Shoigu said an assessment of whether it was safe to resume should be completed later today.
Russia’s investigative committee said the death toll rose to 44 this morning, according to the state news agency RIA Novosti.
