Rescuers confirmed on 30 December that eight miners were still alive inside a collapsed mine in east Chinas Shandong Province, after getting in touch with them via intercom.

An infrared camera was sent down the second relief hole and the camera captured a trapped worker. Rescuers communicated with the trapped worker and learned that there were eight together down there.

After knowing their location, rescuers sent food supply and lights to them through the relief hole. So far the eight miners are in stable condition and further rescue operations will be carried out soon.

Since the accident happened on Christmas Day, seven miners have been rescued from the collapsed mine, and now eight more have been contacted. However, there are still several missing. Rescuers say the third relief hole will be drilled in the afternoon on 30 December.