Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: A tragic methane gas explosion tore through a subterranean coal mine on Thursday afternoon, killing at least 15 workers and leaving 21 others trapped deep underground in the Sorange coalfield, just 30 kilometers northeast of Quetta.
The massive blast ignited a swift underground fire and caused structural collapses across two neighboring shafts, sparking a desperate rescue operation in the rugged mining belt of Balochistan.
Chain Reaction Spreads to Neighboring Mine Shaft
According to government officials, the disaster began nearly 4,000 feet below the surface in a privately operated pit where 24 miners were working. The force of the explosion echoed throughout the Sorange valley, causing immediate fires and destroying supporting structures in the tunnel.
The shockwave quickly compromised a neighboring pit shaft, trapping 12 additional miners working nearby.
”A total of 36 coal miners were inside both mines when the blast took place,” confirmed Chief Inspector of Mines Muhammad Atif.
Rescue teams are currently battling heavy toxic fumes, lingering fire risks, and structural collapses in an urgent bid to reach the trapped laborers.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound grief over the loss of lives in the coal mine tragedy in Quetta’s Sor Range area, describing the incident as a heartbreaking consequence of a suspected methane gas buildup inside the mine. He instructed the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and all relevant agencies to carry out rescue operations with urgency and efficiency, emphasizing that every possible measure should be taken to safely evacuate the trapped miners and provide immediate medical care to the injured. The prime minister said rescue efforts must continue until all affected workers are accounted for, while extending his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and praying for the departed souls. He also called for the implementation of stronger and lasting safety protocols in coal mines to better protect miners, describing the country’s workforce as a precious national asset.
Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti sought a detailed report from the Mines Department on the incident and directed the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation. He also instructed officials to make every possible effort to ensure the safe recovery of the miners still trapped underground.
