Six killed, three injured in mining blast in Mardan

A blast during mining operations triggered a landslide in Mardan district on Tuesday, killing at least six people and injuring three others, 24NewsHD TV reported. 

The officials said the rescue operation was still underway and warned that the toll could rise.

Additional Assistant Commissioner Mujahid Ali said early reports suggested between 10 and 12 people had been trapped under the debris when the blast struck in the Rustam Palodheri hills.

Rescue workers have recovered nine people from the rubble so far, including six bodies, while three injured survivors were shifted for medical treatment, he said.

The district administration put all relevant rescue agencies and hospitals in the area on high alert to handle casualties. Earlier, officials said four people had been pulled out in critical condition.