Death toll in Russian coal mine explosion reaches 18February 11, 2013 - 16:18 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The death toll in the gas blast at a coal mine in Russia’s northern republic of Komi has risen to 18, the republic’s Interior Ministry said on Monday, February 11, according to RIA Novosti. “According to preliminary data, 18 people were killed and ten bodies have been pulled out to the surface,” the ministry said in a statement. However, the Russian Investigative Committee puts the death toll figure at 15. According to the regional Emergencies Ministry, twenty-six miners were working in the section of the mine where methane exploded at a depth of 800 meters. In total some 259 people were working at the mine at that time. The Vorkutinskaya mine, in operation since 1973, is owned by the northern division of one of Russia's largest steel producers Severstal. It produces 1.8 million tons of coal annually. Mine safety conditions in Russia have often been a cause for concern. In 2010, 91 workers died in twin methane gas explosions at a mine owned by the Raspadskaya company in the country's eastern Kemerovo region. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |