Third Death Confirmed After Fire Breaks Out In Kazakh Coal Mine

At least 227 miners were underground when the fire broke out early on August 17. (file photo)

A third miner has been confirmed dead after a fire broke out at the Kazakhsanskaya coal mine in Kazakhstan on August 17. At least 227 miners were underground when the fire broke out, 222 of whom were rescued. Thirteen people have been hospitalized, while two miners remain missing. The coal mine is one of eight owned by ArcelorMittal Temirtau and is one of the oldest mines in the country, having been in operation since 1969. The incident led the government to order an audit of ArcelorMittal Temirtau's safety record. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Kazakh Service, click here.