ZHENGZHOU, Oct. 21 (Xinhuanet) -- A coal mine gas explosion Wednesday night has left 56 people dead and another some 100 missing in central China's Henan Province, according to local sources.

    The blast occurred at 22:47 Wednesday in Daping Mine of Zhengmei Group which is located in Xinmi of the province, according to local coal mine safety administration.

    When the tragedy happened, there were more than 400 people at work. More than 200 people have escaped but another 148 were stranded in the mine.

    The local governments have sent rescue workers to the site right after the accident. So far, 56 people have been confirmed dead, but detailed casualty is unavailable. The rescue work is still going on.

    The cause for the blast is under investigation, according to the administration. Enditem