Efforts have been made to reach workers since the explosion occurred about 240 meters (800 feet) from the mine entrance. Food, medical supplies, blankets and lots of nutritious solutions were passed through a well for the 10 workers, who showed a “gradual improvement” in their physical condition, according to rescue teams cited by Xinhua.
According to state media, rescue workers hope to evacuate miners through a 711 millimeter (28 inch) diameter passageway. At noon on Thursday, rescue workers drilled 18 meters into the mine shaft, but heavy debris can slow efforts.
Gong Haitao, deputy head of Yantai’s advertising department, said at a news conference on Thursday that the mine shaft is blocked 350 to 446 meters (1,100 to 1,400 feet) below the surface by 70 tons of rubble.
“Although the efficiency (of the rescue work) has improved since the 20th, it will take at least 15 days to release the rescue channel in the main well due to the massive size of the obstacles,” said Gong.
The miners have been trapped underground for 12 days.
Gong added that rescuers are trying several different ways to clear obstacles, including using high-powered machines and sending more rescue workers.
Concern is growing for isolated miners. Some of the workers in the chamber are trying to help rescue workers locate their missing colleagues using laser pointers and speakers, but have received no response, Xinhua said.
Rescuers have also drilled smaller channels in other sections of the mine and are reducing nutrient solutions and other means to detect breathing or movement, but no sign of life has been found.
Rescuers heard for the first time sounds of thumps coming from prisoners on January 17, followed by pulling iron ropes. On Monday, the miners managed to send a ticket to the rescue workers. Xinhua quoted the note as saying, “We are extremely exhausted and urgently need stomach medicines, pain relievers, tape, external anti-inflammatories and three people have high blood pressure.”
