The gas well that saw a blowout which killed 233people in southwest China is to remained closed until practical safety measures have been taken to prevent a repeat of the tragedy.

The announcement was made by Wang Xianzheng,director of the State Administration of Work Safety and deputy director of the work safety committee of the State Council,who leads the survey team of the State Council organized after the disaster in Chongqing municipality.

The gas well in Gaoqiao township of Kaixian county blew out suddenly on Tuesday night,releasing a toxic gas that poisoned nearby villagers.

The gas well was successfully sealed on Saturday.