A gas buildup triggered an explosion at a legally operated coal mine in Sutatausa, Cundinamarca, killing nine workers and injuring six. The National Mining Agency (ANM) had warned the site on April 9 about hazardous gas accumulations, including methane. Rescue teams measured gas levels before entering; six miners were rescued alive and the injured were hospitalized. Authorities have launched an investigation and urged stronger safety and ventilation measures.
Nine Dead, Six Injured After Gas Explosion Rocks Coal Mine in Cundinamarca, Colombia
This handout picture released by the Cundinamarca Fire Department shows firefighters inspecting the site of an explosion at a coal mine in Sutatausa, Cundinamarca department, Colombia [AFP]
A powerful explosion at a legally operated coal mine in Sutatausa, Cundinamarca province, north of Bogotá, killed nine workers and injured six, Colombia's National Mining Agency (ANM) said. The blast on Monday was attributed to a buildup of gases, including methane, that can become explosive underground.
The incident occurred at a mine run by Carbonera Los Pinos, where miners were working roughly 600 metres (about 2,000 ft) below ground. Local authorities said the company could not be reached for immediate comment. Governor Jorge Emilio Rey said on X that the blast was "apparently due to a buildup of gases." He initially reported that 12 people had been trapped while three had managed to escape; subsequent rescue efforts confirmed six miners were rescued alive.
Rescue Operations and Safety Measures
Rescue teams and emergency services arrived at the mine entrance with ambulances and medical personnel. Officials said they were measuring gas concentrations inside the mine before entering to conduct search and rescue operations, and the injured were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
"As the ANM has warned during its inspection visits, coal deposits can present accumulations of gases such as methane, as well as concentrations of coal dust," the agency said in a statement, expressing solidarity with victims' families.
The ANM had inspected the site on April 9 and recommended strengthening safety controls after identifying hazardous gases that could accumulate. The agency noted that "thanks to timely rescue efforts, six miners were rescued alive."
Context
Colombia hosts numerous open-pit and underground gold and coal mines. Mining accidents — especially explosions — are relatively common and are frequently linked to poor ventilation and inadequate safety practices. In the Sutatausa area, illegal mining activity also operates alongside licensed operations, increasing overall regional risk.
Authorities have opened an investigation to determine the precise sequence of events that led to Monday’s blast and to assess potential regulatory or operational failures. Officials urged mine operators across the region to adopt stricter gas monitoring and ventilation measures to prevent further tragedies.
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