UPDATE: Norilsk says methane blast at Zapolyarny mine claims 3 lives

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KRASNOYARSK/MOSCOW, Jul 7 (PRIME) -- Three people were killed as a methane blast rocked the Zapolyarny copper and nickel mine of metals giant Norilsk Nickel, the company said in a statement on Friday citing preliminary data.

“According to preliminary data, vapors of methane exploded during construction works. Preliminary data show that three workers died at the site of the blast and several others were injured. The information is being checked,” the company said.

All personnel of the mine were evacuated, and medical staff is treating injuries.

“We are now carrying all necessary rescue operations, we are investigating the causes of the accident. All injured people are now being treated,” the company said citing Sergei Gradyushko, a deputy CEO for labor protection and security of the polar division of Norilsk Nickel.

Local emergency services said they were evacuating 140 people trapping by the blast in the mine.

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