Three miners were killed and several injured in a methane gas explosion at a nickel mine in Norilsk, in Siberia, the Russian mining company Nornickel (Norilsk Nickel) that runs the mine announced on Friday.
The company said in a written statement that at about 10.00 am local time, an explosion occurred at the Zapolyarny mine in Norilsk.
According to the company, a methane gas explosion occurred during construction works.
'All the personnel were evacuated from the mine to the surface, and the miners who were injured are receiving medical assistance,' the company said.
Rescue operations are ongoing at the site.
By Murat Temizer
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr