On 10 September, 19 miners at the Chuanhe Coal Mine in Xiushan County, Chongqing Municipality were trapped when water flooded into the miner. It is believed that the water came from a nearby disused mine.
Rescuers are reportedly waiting until the water level decreases before attempting to rescue the men.
On 11 September the Sangshuping coal mine in Shaanxi Province was flooded. Seven miners escaped but the remaining 15 died.
Since the accident, 15 other small coal mines nearby have suspended production until safety checks are completed.
17 September 2003. Updated 24 September