Hundreds feared dead in mine flood

Torrential rain caused a waste-holding reservoir in Tashan to overflow, causing an avalanche of mud and rocks that filled the mine and buried homes and cars in its path. Heavy rain continued to hinder the search for survivors, which was led by 1,100 police, firefighters and villagers.

China’s desire for economic self-sufficiency coupled with strong iron-ore prices have spurred the mining of low-grade deposits, the Reuters said, often with little regard or environmental or safety measures.

See full story