Quetta, Balochistan – A tragic incident at a coal mine in the Zardalo area of Balochistan’s Harnai district resulted in the deaths of twelve miners and the rescue of six others following an explosion on Wednesday. The explosion, caused by a methane gas leak, trapped a total of 18 miners inside the mine. Despite efforts to rescue all individuals, only six miners were successfully saved while the remaining 12 lost their lives.
According to officials, the rescued miners were found unconscious. The Chief Inspector of Mines in Balochistan, Abdul Ghani Baloch, explained that the explosion occurred due to the accumulation of methane gas overnight in the mine. The government mining department and disaster management agency conducted the rescue operation, successfully recovering all 12 bodies and transferring them to the hospital.
Abdullah Shahwani, the Director General of Mining in the province, confirmed the death toll resulting from the mine cave-in, which occurred approximately 80 kilometers east of Quetta. Sadly, incidents of miner fatalities are not uncommon in Balochistan province, known for its mineral-rich resources. Shahwani highlighted the challenges posed by unregulated mining practices in the region, emphasizing the lack of safety measures and poor working conditions in these mining operations.
The government authorities and mining experts involved in the rescue operation expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased miners. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by miners in Balochistan, shedding light on the urgent need for improved safety regulations and enforcement in the mining industry. As investigations into the cause of the explosion continue, the community mourns the tragic loss of lives in this devastating event.