Eastern News.

Evening Post, Volume XLVII, Issue 93, 20 April 1894, Page 4

Eastern News.

Recent newa from the East via Sydney states that a serious disaster has ocourred at the Changahan coal mines, Shantung. According to one report the mines were suddenly flooded, while according to another an explosion took place, but whatever the cause of tho disaster it is stated that 450 people lost their lives. The mines in question are worked by the antiquated Chinese style, and produce over 30 tons a day, giving employment to over 1000 men and boys. Information has been received at the head office of tho Nippon Yusen Kaifeha, from the steamer Sakatamaru, ashore at Fushiki, tn the effect that while 15 coolies and the second officer, Mr. Sugiyama, wore ongaged m 18th February in clearing out the after tank, there was a sudden inrush of water from v. lenk. Everything possible was done to Bavo the men, but without success, all being drowned. The bodies of ton of the coolies were recoverod, but up to latest advices the bodies of Mr. Sugiyama and the other coolies had not been fonr.rl. The steamer Saigon (.M.M lino) and the Bluo-funnel liner Tantalis have both gone ashore off the China coast. Whilst ondeavouring to get the Tantalis off the rooks the Hongkong steam tug Pilot Fish went ashore, and became a total wreck.