Rescue site of a coal mine explosion in China [Photo courtesy of Xinhua News Agency]

Eighty-two people have died in a gas explosion accident at a coal mine in central China's Shanxi Province.

According to Chinese state-run Xinhua News Agency and China Central Television (CCTV) on the 23rd, a gas explosion occurred at a coal mine in Qinyuan County, Shanxi Province, around 7:29 p.m. yesterday.

At the time of the accident, a total of 247 people were working in the underground tunnel.

Local authorities announced at 6 a.m. today that 8 people had died and 38 were trapped in the underground tunnel. However, the death toll surged to 82 as rescue operations progressed.

Nine people remain missing.

Xinhua News Agency reported that rescue operations are urgently underway at the accident site and the exact number of casualties is still being compiled.

Authorities stated that they have taken measures to control the whereabouts of the mine's managers in connection with the accident.

President Xi Jinping, following the accident, instructed that all efforts be made to treat the injured, thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident, and hold those responsible strictly accountable according to the law.

President Xi emphasized the need to further strengthen vigilance regarding safe production in light of this accident, and to resolutely prevent major accidents by thoroughly inspecting and rectifying all risk factors and potential causes of accidents.

Premier Li Qiang of the State Council also instructed that full efforts be made to rescue those trapped in the tunnel and to treat the injured, and to promptly and accurately release relevant information.