A Minimum of 21 Fatalities Reported in Kazakhstan Coal Mine Blaze

In central Kazakhstan, a fire at the Kostenko coal mine resulted in the death of no fewer than 21 workers, according to an official statement from the mine’s operator, ArcelorMittal Temirtau. Additionally, 25 workers are still missing as of Saturday.

At the time the fire broke out, the mine was staffed by 252 workers. The incident is suspected to have originated from a methane gas pocket, as stated by the operating company.

ArcelorMittal Temirtau serves as the regional arm for the Luxembourg-based global corporation ArcelorMittal, which is the world’s second-largest steel manufacturing company. The firm oversees eight coal mines in the Karaganda area, as well as four additional iron ore mines in central and northern Kazakhstan.

This tragic incident is the most recent in a series of fatal accidents at facilities managed by ArcelorMittal Temirtau. Previously, in August, four workers lost their lives in a fire at the same Kostenko mine. Additionally, a methane gas leak in November 2022 at another site led to five fatalities.

In their formal statement, ArcelorMittal Temirtau expressed sorrow over the loss of life and indicated that their current focus is on providing comprehensive support and rehabilitation for the affected employees. The company also committed to closely cooperating with governmental agencies.

In response to the disaster, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced on Saturday that Kazakhstan would cease its “investment cooperation” with ArcelorMittal Temirtau. Concurrently, the Office of Kazakhstan’s Prosecutor General has initiated an inquiry into possible safety infractions at the coal mine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kazakhstan Coal Mine Fire

More about Kazakhstan Coal Mine Fire

• ArcelorMittal Corporate Website
• Kazakhstan’s Office of the Prosecutor General
• Global Steel Production Statistics
• Workplace Safety Regulations in Kazakhstan
• Previous Incidents at ArcelorMittal Temirtau Facilities