A methane gas explosion at the Sorange coalfield near Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan, has resulted in the deaths of at least 34 workers.
The blast, which occurred during a shift change, trapped more than 50 miners in the coalfield, the PTI reported.
The explosion happened around 4,000ft underground and caused significant structural collapses, killing several workers instantly and trapping others under debris.
Rescue teams have managed to retrieve 34 bodies and save 22 trapped individuals, as reported by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority.
The world’s worst coal mining disasters
Chief Inspector of Mines Muhammad Atif was quoted by the Hindu, citing the PTI, that while 22 workers were initially trapped in the affected mine, others were caught in the neighbouring site also impacted by the blast.
Pir Muhammad Kakar from the All Pakistan Coal Miners Association attributed the disaster to a lethal build-up of methane gas.
Kakar pointed out that unsafe practices are often followed by private owners, who fail to adhere to safety protocols and neglect proper worker registration.
Kakar further added: “When such explosions happen so deep underground, the chance of survival is low because they usually damage the entrance and exit points.”
Balochistan Mines and Minerals Minister Shoaib Nosherwani stated that rescue operations are extremely challenging and announced plans for a thorough investigation into the explosion and a review of mining safety measures.
In response to the incident, the Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and demanded tough action against companies violating safety laws.
Fatal accidents frequently occur in Pakistan's coal mining sector, especially in Balochistan, where numerous mines are deficient in proper ventilation, gas detection systems and other essential safety protocols.
For an extended period, mine workers and labour organisations have consistently charged mine owners with neglecting to implement safety standards or supply sufficient protective gear.
