Pakistan Coal Mine Tragedy: 32 Killed, 10 Missing After Massive Blast in Balochistan

New Delhi: A devastating coal mine explosion in Pakistan’s Balochistan province claimed the lives of at least 32 miners on Thursday, while 10 others remain missing after a large section of the mine collapsed. Rescue teams continue to battle difficult conditions as they search for survivors deep underground.

The blast occurred in the Suranj area near Quetta, the provincial capital. According to Balochistan’s Minister for Mines and Mineral Development, Shoaib Nosherwani, several miners were working inside the affected section when the explosion ripped through the mine, triggering a massive collapse.

Expressing condolences to the bereaved families, Nosherwani announced compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees for the family of each deceased miner. He also ordered a detailed investigation into the incident and said mining safety standards across the province would be reviewed.

Rescue Operation at 4,000-Foot Depth

Rescue teams rushed to the site immediately after the explosion. Chief Inspector of Mines Mohammad Atif said the operation is being carried out nearly 4,000 feet (1,219 metres) below the surface, making rescue efforts extremely challenging.

The Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation suspects the blast was caused by the ignition of accumulated methane gas inside the mine. The union has demanded strict action against those responsible and called for stronger enforcement of mining safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies.

Rescue personnel continue to face major obstacles, including the mine’s extreme depth and the presence of toxic gases, as efforts to locate and safely recover the missing workers remain underway.