The fire, which probably broke out as a result of sparks from a welder that ignited the coal, forced the evacuation of 25 workers and slightly injured two.

GSIS (Global Steamexfire Inertisation Services) mobilised on site about three weeks ago using the Steamexfire inertisation apparatus. GSIS is a Dutch-Australian alliance and recently put out a coal mine fire in South Africa.

The 1000m-long section of tunnel that was burning was filled with water, and then mist and carbon dioxide was blown in to suffocate the fire.

The company hopes to reopen the mine early next year.